5 Blood Sugar Tips That Don’t Involve Skipping Pie

Enjoy Thanksgiving and keep your blood sugar balanced.

There are certain Thanksgiving traditions that are immediately appealing, beloved by most and seemingly attainable by all. They tend to be things like easy pumpkin pie, comforting stuffing, or mashed potatoes that somehow look like they belong in a magazine. These are the recipes and rituals that don’t require much persuading for people to make and enjoy them.

Then there are holiday considerations that may not feel quite as exciting or glamourous at first glance. Things like… your blood sugar. And how to keep it balanced. Not exactly the stuff of dinner-table conversation, right?

Blood sugar balance is something many people (who don’t have diabetes) would probably file under “why would I ever think about that.” And I get it: if your body usually keeps it in check, why pay it any attention? But I promise that being mindful of your blood sugar is not scary or complicated.

The thing is, when blood sugar levels swing (or even spike) wildly, it shows up as jittery energy, sudden hunger, brain fog, or crankiness—not exactly the vibe anyone wants at a Thanksgiving table. Paying attention doesn’t mean restriction; it means giving your body extra support it needs so you can enjoy the meal, the people, and yes…even a second helping of pie.

So maybe this is the year you start to think about it. These are the top five ways I keep my blood sugar steady throughout the day—because a calmer, happier holiday table starts long before you sit down to eat turkey.

1. Don’t skip meals earlier in the day.

Even if you’re planning a big Thanksgiving feast, starting your day with something balanced—a little protein, a little fiber—keeps you from showing up ravenous. No one needs to be “that person” attacking the bread basket before dinner.

2. Balance your plate.

When you do eat, aim for a mix of protein, fiber-rich carbs, and healthy fats. This combination slows digestion, keeps you full, and gives you a fighting chance to read your own hunger cues instead of just reacting to whatever’s on the table.

3. Pause before going back for seconds.

Give your body a few minutes to register that it’s full. Taste-testing is fine (mandatory, even), but that brief pause can save you from mindlessly eating until you’re “too full.”

4. Don’t forget movement (even small).

No, I’m not telling you to sign up for a Thanksgiving morning 5K race. A short walk around the block or even just standing up and stretching throughout the day helps regulate blood sugar and digestion. Plus, it’s a built-in excuse to escape the political debates at the table.

5. Hydrate consistently.

Keep water nearby. Your body can confuse thirst for hunger, and staying hydrated keeps you clear-headed, calm, and slightly less likely to accidentally polish off an extra slice of pie in a single bite.