Nutritionists suggest the optimal time for Thanksgiving dinner to aid in digestion.

Your choice of time for Thanksgiving dinner could influence your overall health.

Ilana Muhlstein, a Los Angeles-based registered dietitian nutritionist, stated that the timing of a meal can significantly impact digestion, according to Planet Chronicle Digital.

Between 3:30 and 5:00 p.m. is the "sweet spot," she stated.

She observed that when the meal is served at 2 p.m., individuals often remain at the table for extended periods, resulting in numerous servings of each dish being consumed in an attempt to fill the time.

"Skipping meals during the day can lead to negative consequences when eating too late, such as 5:30 p.m. or later."

Eating later in the day can lead to overeating at dinner, feeling stuffed, and experiencing digestive issues or regret, according to Muhlstein.

The expert recommends restricting your eating duration to a maximum of two hours, including any pre-meal snacks like appetizers or charcuterie.

"Enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner mindfully, savoring each bite and listening to your body’s cues."

Starting with cheese, crackers, chips, dips, and wine can make your eating window last three to four hours, increasing the likelihood of overindulgence, she stated.

Muhlstein recommended focusing on drinking water or a seasonal tea, such as pumpkin or cinnamon, during the first hour of mingling before diving into the main course.

"By following this method, you will have ample time to savor a generous Thanksgiving feast and indulge in dessert without overindulging."

In a conversation with Planet Chronicle Digital, Jessica Sepel, a clinical nutritionist and founder of JSHealth Vitamins, stated that the importance of meal timing is less than how you approach the meal.

Sepel, based in Los Angeles, recommends consuming the main meal before 9:00 p.m. to aid proper digestion before retiring for the night.

Sepel suggests additional options to promote digestion and well-being on Thanksgiving, aside from timing.

Drinking fennel or ginger tea before or after meals can aid digestion.

She stated that these herbs are great for reducing bloating and aiding in digesting a heavier meal.

To prevent overeating and ensure adequate protein and nourishment, the expert recommends balancing meals throughout the day.

She advised savoring each bite and listening to your body's cues during your Thanksgiving dinner.

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"Balance is key to nourishment, and it's possible to indulge in celebrations without jeopardizing your health."

Feeling over-stuffed?

Eating too much on Thanksgiving is easy when there are many tasty dishes available.

Consuming excessive amounts of food without proper digestion can cause bloating, indigestion, or fatigue, as stated by Jamie Maitland, a certified holistic nutritionist, author of "21-Day Reset Cookbook," and founder of The Office Health.

She advised Planet Chronicle Digital that a large holiday meal is often high in fats, carbs, sugar, and protein, but it's crucial to allow your body time to digest everything.

Maitland, a Florida-based nutritionist, provided some additional tips for optimal digestion, suggesting that eating between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. is the best time for the digestive system to function at its best.

She advised to savor each bite by slowing down, rather than eating as if it's the last meal.

"Eating slowly aids digestion and allows your body to recognize when it's full, preventing overeating."

"It’s important to give your body the space to process everything."

Drinking water is recommended by Maitland to aid in food breakdown and prevent bloating.

Another way to aid digestion is by engaging in physical activity after a meal, such as going for a walk or playing a game with family, she stated.

Keeping things moving in the digestive system through movement can prevent the 'food coma' sensation, as Maitland explained.

"A stroll doesn't have to be a formal exercise routine; use your imagination and don't underestimate its benefits."