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Home » Roundups

11 Thanksgiving Foods That Could Be Sabotaging Your Health

By: kseniaprints · Updated: Nov 13, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links.

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Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, but some traditional foods can negatively impact your health. These 11 Thanksgiving foods that could be sabotaging your health are common on many holiday tables. While it's okay to enjoy special treats, being aware of their potential effects can help you make informed choices. Many classic Thanksgiving dishes are high in calories, sugar, or unhealthy fats. Some may contain ingredients that can cause digestive issues or allergic reactions in certain people.

Understanding which foods might be problematic allows you to enjoy your meal while being mindful of your health. By learning about these potentially problematic foods, you can make smart decisions about what to eat during your Thanksgiving feast. Consider trying healthier alternatives or enjoying smaller portions of these dishes. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the holiday while taking care of your health.

The contents of this article, made available via At The Immigrant's Table, are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. The content presented here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical concern or dietary changes. Reliance on any information provided by this article is solely at your own risk.

Introduction. Photo credit: 123RF.

Turkey Skin

A roasted turkey placed on a bed of fresh lettuce, surrounded by cherry tomato halves and yellow bell pepper slices. The dish is served in a black pan with a rustic wooden table in the background.
Turkey Skin. Photo credit: 123RF.

While crispy and flavorful, turkey skin is high in saturated fat. It can contribute significantly to calorie intake without adding much nutritional value. Removing the skin before eating can reduce fat and calorie content. For those watching their cholesterol levels, it's best to avoid or limit consumption of turkey skin.

Stuffing

A blue oval dish filled with cornbread stuffing placed on a patterned fabric. The stuffing consists of small, golden-brown crumbled pieces.
Stuffing. Photo credit: 123RF.

Traditional stuffing is often high in calories, sodium, and refined carbohydrates. It's typically made with white bread, which lacks fiber and nutrients. Some stuffings may contain high-fat ingredients like sausage or butter. Consider making a healthier version using whole-grain bread and adding more vegetables.

Gravy

A white gravy boat filled with light brown gravy is placed in the foreground. In the background, a plate with roasted meat, garnished with orange slices and grapes, is partially visible on a dark surface.
Gravy. Photo credit: 123RF.

Made from meat drippings, gravy is high in fat and calories. It's often laden with sodium, which can be problematic for those with high blood pressure. Gravy can add a significant amount of calories to your plate without much nutritional benefit. Try using a low-fat broth as a base or limiting portion sizes.

Candied Yams

A black dish filled with glazed, cooked carrots placed on a rustic wooden table. The carrots are evenly sliced and have a glossy, caramelized appearance, with hints of glaze pooling at the bottom of the dish.
Candied Yams. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Despite the nutritional benefits of yams, this dish is often loaded with added sugars. The marshmallow topping common in many recipes adds empty calories. This sweet side dish can spike blood sugar levels quickly. Consider roasting yams with herbs instead for a healthier alternative.

Green Bean Casserole

A dish of green bean casserole topped with crispy fried onions and sliced mushrooms is served in an oval ceramic baking dish on stacked plates.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: 123RF.

While green beans are nutritious, this casserole often contains high-sodium canned soup and fried onions. The creamy sauce adds unnecessary fat and calories. This dish can be high in sodium, which may be a concern for those with heart issues. Try steaming green beans and topping with sliced almonds for a healthier option.

Pecan Pie

A freshly baked pie with a section of pecans and another of caramelized nuts on a textured cloth backdrop.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This dessert is one of the most calorie-dense items on the Thanksgiving table. It's high in sugar and fat, with pecans adding additional calories. A single slice can contain more than half the recommended daily calorie intake for some people. Consider having a small slice or opting for pumpkin pie, which is generally lower in calories.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with gravy is placed on a table. Nearby, there are small bowls containing chopped green onions and salt. A knife and fork rest on an orange cloth next to the bowl.
Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: 123RF.

Often made with butter and cream, mashed potatoes can be high in saturated fat. They're also a high-glycemic food, potentially causing rapid spikes in blood sugar. The addition of salt can make this dish high in sodium. Try using low-fat milk and adding roasted garlic for flavor instead of excess butter.

Cranberry Sauce

A white bowl filled with cranberry sauce is placed on a light wooden surface. Around the bowl are scattered fresh cranberries and two cinnamon sticks. A spoon and a folded blue napkin are positioned nearby.
Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: 123RF.

Canned cranberry sauce is often high in added sugars. It can contain more sugar per serving than some desserts. While cranberries are nutritious, the benefits are often outweighed by the sugar content in this form. Consider making your own sauce with fresh cranberries and less sugar.

Dinner Rolls

A round loaf of pull-apart garlic bread topped with herbs is next to a bowl of stew containing broccoli, carrots, and other vegetables. Fresh cilantro is scattered beside the dishes.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

White dinner rolls are made from refined flour, lacking fiber and nutrients. They can cause a quick spike in blood sugar levels. Rolls are often eaten with butter, adding more saturated fat to the meal. If possible, opt for whole grain rolls or limit your intake.

Sweet Potato Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked sweet potato casserole topped with pecans. The dish has a green rim and is placed on a wooden surface.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: 123RF.

Similar to candied yams, this dish often contains a lot of added sugar. The marshmallow or streusel topping adds extra calories without nutritional value. Sweet potatoes are nutritious on their own but lose many benefits when prepared this way. Try roasting sweet potatoes with cinnamon for a healthier alternative.

Creamed Corn

A blue bowl filled with creamy corn, garnished with chopped herbs, is placed on a blue fringed cloth on a wooden surface.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: 123RF.

This popular side dish is often high in calories and fat due to the addition of cream, butter, or cheese. The corn's natural sugars combined with added ingredients can cause rapid blood sugar spikes. Creamed corn is typically low in fiber compared to whole-kerne corn. For a healthier option, consider serving plain corn on the cob or a corn salad with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing.

15 Foods That Are Healthier Than You Think

15 Foods That Are Healthier Than You Think. Photo credit: 123RF.

How about foods that you didn't think are good for you? Some foods that people think aren't good for you can actually help your health. Avocados, for example, are creamy and taste great, but they're also packed with things your body needs. Even dark chocolate, which seems like just a sweet snack, can be part of a healthy diet. These 15 surprising healthy foods can make you feel better if you eat them regularly. It's a good idea to try lots of different foods because each one does something special for your body. When you learn why these foods are good for you, it can make trying new things more exciting!
Read More Here: 15 Foods That Are Healthier Than You Think

9 Foods That Naturally Fight Back Pain and Keep Your Spine Healthy

9 Foods That Naturally Fight Back Pain and Keep Your Spine Healthy. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Want to learn what foods you should start eating to help with back pain? Back pain can be a serious hassle, creeping in when you least expect it and refusing to let go. While reaching for pain meds might feel like a quick fix, there’s another way to tackle that discomfort—through nutrition. These 9 foods for back pain play a powerful role in managing pain, especially when it comes to inflammation and muscle health.
Read More Here: 9 Foods That Naturally Fight Back Pain and Keep Your Spine Healthy

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About Ksenia

Welcome to At The Immigrant's Table! I blend my immigrant roots with modern diets, crafting recipes that take you on a global kitchen adventure. As a food blogger and photographer, I'm dedicated to making international cuisine both healthy and accessible. Let's embark on a culinary journey that bridges cultures and introduces a world of flavors right into your home. Read more...

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