Carbs Are Not the Enemy — Especially on Thanksgiving

Carbs Are Not the Enemy — Especially on Thanksgiving

Let’s get this out of the way: carbs are not out to ruin your fitness journey. They’re not plotting against your glutes, your strength goals, or your progress. In fact, carbs are one of your body’s favorite sources of energy — especially if you lift, train, or simply exist as a human being with things to do.

So when Thanksgiving rolls around and the mashed potatoes, rolls, stuffing, pie, and all the deliciousness show up on the table… you do NOT need to panic.

One Day Won’t Undo Months of Progress

Here’s the truth we often forget: one day of eating in a surplus will not derail the work you’ve put in.
Not your training.
Not your strength.
Not your glute gains.
Not your fat-loss progress.

Your body responds to patterns, not single moments. If your pattern has been solid most of the year — lifting consistently, eating with intention, hitting your protein, practicing flexible nutrition — your body will be just fine with one festive, high-carb, joy-filled day.

You Can Go Right Back to Your Usual Nutrition

The magic happens when you simply go back to your normal routine the next day. No punishment. No restriction. No “I need to detox.” Nope.

Just return to:

  • Your usual meals

  • Your normal protein target

  • Your regular training

  • Your everyday hydration

That’s it.
Your progress continues from there, uninterrupted.

Enjoying Thanksgiving Is Part of a Healthy Relationship With Food

Remember: fitness isn’t just about macros and sets. It’s also about:

  • Enjoying your life

  • Sharing meals with people you love

  • Allowing flexibility

  • Building trust with yourself

Having more carbs on Thanksgiving can actually help your journey — mentally, emotionally, and even physically (hello glycogen, hello energy).

You’re not “falling off.” You’re living. You’re celebrating. You’re giving your body extra fuel and your mind a break. And that’s healthy.

Give Yourself Permission

So this Thanksgiving, remind yourself:

  • Carbs are not the enemy.

  • One surplus day won’t undo anything.

  • You can always return to your routine tomorrow.

  • You deserve joy around food — without guilt.

Enjoy your meal, enjoy your people, and enjoy the progress you're building not just in strength, but in your relationship with food.

Happy Thanksgiving — and happy eating. 🧡🥔🥧

Coach Luis and Building Roots .Comment