Thanksgiving, the ultimate feast-fest, is right around the corner! It’s that time of year that can be a special one to spend with friends and loved ones to celebrate gratitude and, of course, indulge in a smorgasbord of mouthwatering dishes. My wish for you is to not get bogged down by the tryptophan talk or worry about a little overindulgence.

This holiday is meant for savoring, not stressing!

Thanksgiving is like a symphony of favorite foods, interacting with family and guests from near and far, hanging out and maybe a football game or two all to be shared. It’s a celebration of comfort food and culinary tradition. So, toss aside the calorie counter and dive into enthusiastically! Each bite is a nod to the love and effort that went into crafting these delectable creations.

Tryptophan, it’s always a topic of conversation

The talk of turkey-induced sleepiness due to tryptophan is a bit overblown. Yes, turkey does contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps in serotonin production, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. But guess what? Chicken, cheese, and even some fish can have the same affect. The so-called “turkey coma” is more likely the result of a little stuffing, some mashed potatoes, gravy, root vegetables, perhaps a roll all filling your plate! Maybe that’s the true culprit. It you keep it to one meal (or two!) there’s no need to shame or worry about it. After all, it’s not called a feast for nothing!

Go ahead and add in vegetables, salads and that ever-needed after dinner stroll to feel a little less full and more like your usual self. It’s all about enjoying without overdoing it!

Let’s not forget the heart of Thanksgiving

The heart of Thanksgiving is the quality time with family and friends. Engage in lively conversations, share stories, or play a friendly game of charades. These moments of connection are what make Thanksgiving truly special. The laughter, the stories, and the shared experiences are the true treasures of the day.

This Thanksgiving, let’s choose to be on the positive side and dive headfirst into the feast! It’s about cherishing the flavors, relishing the moments, and giving thanks for the abundance in our lives. So share a plate, and celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving with all the love and warmth it deserves.

Cheers to good food, great company, and lasting memories!

~ Dr. Kaufman