Experts expose why big meals backfire and how to…
Thanksgiving is a time of indulgence — so if you’re wanting to really feel fuller with less food, what are your choices for packing your meal with protein?
Thanksgiving food doesn’t need to throw off your weight-loss progress — or style any less scrumptious — according to Stephen Campolo, a fitness coach and weight-loss professional based in Naples, Florida.
“The single best move you can make is simple: Start with protein and get full on turkey and ham first,” Campolo told Fox News Digital.
“Skip the bread basket and load your plate with at least 6 to 8 ounces of lean turkey, plus a solid portion of ham,” he added.
People ought to eat their protein “slowly and completely before even glancing at the sides,” he also really helpful.
“High-quality protein triggers satiety faster than any carb on the table,” Campolo said.
Experts weigh in how to pack your meal with protein for Thanksgiving and skip on big meals. Drazen – stock.adobe.com
“Once your stomach registers ‘enough,’ those mashed potatoes, stuffing and rolls lose their power. You’ll naturally take smaller portions — or skip them altogether — and still feel completely satisfied.”
But if you’re abstaining from meat, a filling Thanksgiving meal doesn’t need to be all ham and turkey.
Plant-based proteins, such as lentils, can also improve Thanksgiving meals, said Becky Geisel, proprietor of Bex Kitchen & Catering in New Jersey.
“At Bex, we love incorporating lentils into sides like our popular lentil and cauliflower salad or lentil and butternut squash salad,” Geisel told Fox News Digital.
“Skip the bread basket and load your plate with at least 6 to 8 ounces of lean turkey, plus a solid portion of ham,” Stephen Campolo, a fitness coach and weight-loss professional, said. “High-quality protein triggers satiety faster.” evgenyb – stock.adobe.com
“Chickpeas, quinoa and nuts such as almonds, pecans and peanuts also pack in protein and add satisfying texture. Seeds, especially pumpkin and chia, are easy to sprinkle into salads or roasted vegetable dishes for an extra boost of protein.”
The chef also emphasised greens such as broccoli, spinach and Brussels sprouts.
“Once your stomach registers ‘enough,’ those mashed potatoes, stuffing and rolls lose their power. You’ll naturally take smaller portions — or skip them altogether — and still feel completely satisfied,” Campolo said. pressmaster – stock.adobe.com
“As a chef who focuses on whole foods and nutrition, I always remind people that Thanksgiving can be both indulgent and balanced,” Geisel said.
“It’s all about creating dishes that nourish your body while celebrating flavor and tradition.”
Danielle Vauthy, a Washington-based skilled chef at Hungryroot, also really helpful combining protein with greens.
According to Becky Geisel, proprietor of Bex Kitchen & Catering, plant-based proteins also can have a place on the desk. peopleimages.com – stock.adobe.com
“I love adding more protein to Thanksgiving with a simple yet refreshing protein-packed salad,” Vauthy said.
“It’s easily made using cooked or canned chickpeas, shaved Brussels sprouts and fennel tossed in a light vinaigrette,” she told Fox News Digital. “It’s crisp, colorful and a great balance to heavier dishes.”
She also instructed beginning the meal with protein.
“Serve hummus with fresh veggies, add a cheese plate to your spread, and top salads with toasted pepitas or slivered almonds for a quick crunch and a nice protein lift,” Vauthy really helpful.
“Another tasty and easy way to up your protein game is by using your turkey’s bone broth as the base for your gravy.”
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