green beans, stuffing, and sweet potato bake in casserole dishes placed on the dinner table ready for the Thanksgiving Meal

Gut-Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes Everyone Loves

Thanksgiving is one of the coziest food holidays of the year but it often leaves people feeling stuffed, bloated, and ready for a nap by 3 PM.

The truth? Your favorite dishes don’t have to be gut-busters. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy delicious, crowd-pleasing sides that support digestion, keep blood sugar balanced, and still bring all the holiday flavor.

Here are a few of my go-to gut-healthy Thanksgiving side dishes that everyone at the table will love.

1. Cauliflower Mash with Garlic & Herbs: Full Recipe HERE

A lighter twist on mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy, flavorful, and easier on digestion.
Tip: Add roasted garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for that classic comfort flavor.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Full Recipe HERE

Brussels sprouts are packed with fiber and antioxidants. Roasting makes them crispy and caramelized, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy-sweet finish.
Tip: Toss with pecans or pomegranate seeds for holiday flair.

3. Sweet Potato Bake (Without the Marshmallows): Full Recipe HERE

Skip the sugar-loaded marshmallow topping. Instead, roast sweet potatoes with coconut oil, cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Tip: Add crushed pecans on top for crunch.

4. Grain-Free Stuffing with Veggies & Herbs: Full Recipe HERE

Traditional stuffing is heavy on bread and butter. Instead, try a version with cauliflower rice, onions, celery, mushrooms, and plenty of herbs for that savory flavor — without the gut bomb.

5. Cranberry Sauce with Orange & Honey: Full Recipe HERE

Most canned cranberry sauces are loaded with high-fructose corn syrup. Make your own with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of raw honey.
Tip: The natural tartness pairs perfectly with turkey.

Holiday bloating isn’t just about “eating too much.” It’s usually about sugar spikes, inflammatory oils, and heavy foods your gut struggles to process. By swapping in more fiber-rich veggies, healthy fats, and clean sweeteners, you’ll give your body the flavors it craves and the support it needs to feel energized... even after the big meal.