Planning a Thanksgiving Dinner That’s Easy on the Joints

Thanksgiving is fast approaching! 🍂 It’s a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, but if you’re living with arthritis, preparing a big meal can feel overwhelming. The long hours on your feet, chopping, stirring, and carrying heavy dishes can lead to aching joints that make it tough to enjoy the day.

The good news? There are simple ways to make Thanksgiving easier on your joints so you can focus on what really matters—spending time with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal.

Here are a few tips to plan a Thanksgiving that’s arthritis-friendly:

 

1. Break Up the Work 🥕

One of the best ways to avoid arthritis flare-ups is to space out your kitchen tasks.

In the past, I used to try and cram everything into one day—big mistake! These days, I spread out the prep. I chop veggies, make pie crusts, or prep sides the day before so I’m not doing everything at once. It’s a lifesaver! My joints feel so much better when I take it slow, and I can actually enjoy the cooking instead of rushing through it.

 

2. Use Arthritis-Friendly Kitchen Tools 🍽️

If you haven’t yet, now’s the time to rely on kitchen gadgets designed to make life easier for people with arthritis. Use electric can openers, food processors, and ergonomic utensils to reduce the strain on your hands and wrists. These tools can take the hard work out of meal prep, saving you pain without skimping on flavor.

 

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help 👩‍🍳👨‍🍳

I used to feel like I had to do everything myself. Now, I realize that’s not what Thanksgiving is about. These days, I ask for help!

Whether it’s my family setting the table, carrying heavy dishes, or even helping peel potatoes, getting others involved makes the day more fun and takes a load off my joints. It’s a team effort!

 

4. Take Breaks to Stretch and Rest 🧘‍♀️

If you suffer from arthritis, you know how long periods of standing can really wear down your joints. Be sure to take regular breaks—sit down, stretch, and relax for a few minutes between tasks.

This one has been huge for me. Standing for hours used to leave me so stiff by the time dinner was ready, I could barely enjoy it. Now, I make sure to take little breaks—sit down for a few minutes, stretch my legs, and move around a bit. I’ve found that it keeps my joints from locking up and makes the whole day much more comfortable.

 

 

5. Plan a Joint-Friendly Menu 🥗

Thanksgiving food doesn’t have to be heavy to be satisfying. Consider including dishes that are good for your joints, like leafy greens, fish rich in omega-3s (like salmon), and colorful veggies like sweet potatoes.

These anti-inflammatory foods can help keep your joints moving smoothly, even after a big holiday meal.

 

6. Watch the Sugar and Salt 🍬

We all love to indulge during the holidays, but too much sugar and salt can trigger inflammation in your joints. While it’s fine to treat yourself to pie and stuffing, balance things out with healthier options, like roasted veggies or a fresh fruit salad. Your joints (and the rest of your body) will thank you for it!

 

7. Use One-Pot or Sheet Pan Recipes 🍲

One-pot recipes have been a lifesaver for me. I love making meals that only need one dish—like roasted veggies and turkey all on one sheet pan. It cuts down on the number of dishes, and best of all, it means less time on my feet. This has really helped me avoid extra joint pain during the holiday rush.

 

8. Savor the Leftovers with Less Effort 🥧

I’m all about the leftovers! I always make sure to prepare a little extra so I have plenty to enjoy the next day without having to cook again. It’s the best way to relax after the big meal—just heat up your leftovers and enjoy all the deliciousness without any of the extra effort. My joints definitely appreciate the break!

 

Enjoy an Arthritis-Friendly Thanksgiving! 🦃

There’s no need to let arthritis stop you from enjoying this holiday. With a little planning and some smart adjustments, you can have a relaxing, joyful, and delicious Thanksgiving without overworking your joints.

Here’s to a comfortable, cozy, and arthritis-friendly Thanksgiving!

Brandon