Bariatric & GLP-1 Holiday Recipe Ideas for Thanksgiving, Christmas

The holidays are meant for joy, connection, and celebration but they can also bring plenty of food-centered moments. Whether you’re focusing on nutrition after bariatric surgery or supporting your wellness while using a GLP-1 medication, staying balanced during this season is possible and enjoyable.

At ProCare Health, we believe you can celebrate fully while honoring your body’s needs. With mindful choices, delicious recipes, and a few small adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors and traditions you love without stress or guilt. This guide offers bariatric-friendly and GLP-1-friendly recipe ideas, tips for holiday gatherings, and gentle reminders to help you feel confident and cared for all season long.

Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Gratitude & Balance

Thanksgiving is about gratitude, connection, and delicious food. You can enjoy all three while staying mindful of your goals.

Bariatric & GLP-1 Friendly Thanksgiving Tips:

Start with protein: Turkey or other lean protein can anchor your plate.
Be intentional with sides: Take small portions of your favorites, and skip what doesn’t truly appeal to you.
Stay hydrated: Sip water or calorie-free beverages between bites to support digestion and slow your pace.
Take mindful pauses: Set your fork down occasionally to check in with fullness and enjoy conversation.

Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas

High-Protein Pumpkin Pie Cups

A creamy, portion-controlled dessert that brings all the comfort of pumpkin pie—without the sugar rush or heavy crust.

Nutrition (estimated per serving)
Makes 6 servings — Calories: ~50 • Protein: ~7–8 g • Carbs: ~6 g • Fat: ~0–1 g • Fiber: ~1 g • Sugar: ~3–4 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

Ingredients

1 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
½ cup pure pumpkin purée
1 scoop ProCare Health Whey Protein Powder
2 tbsp sugar-free instant pudding mix (vanilla or cheesecake flavor)
½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
Sugar-free whipped topping (optional)

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, pumpkin purée, protein powder, pudding mix, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
Spoon evenly into small dessert cups or ramekins.
Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding mix to set.
Top with a small dollop of sugar-free whipped topping and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Cauliflower Mash

A lighter, creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that pairs perfectly with turkey, chicken, or any main dish.

Nutrition (estimated per serving)
Makes 4 servings — Calories: ~65 • Protein: ~2–3 g • Carbs: ~7–8 g • Fat: ~3 g • Fiber: ~3 g • Sugar: ~2 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
1 garlic clove, peeled
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
1 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chives or parsley for garnish

Directions

Steam or boil cauliflower and garlic until very tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
Transfer to a food processor and blend with yogurt (or cream cheese), butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Adjust seasoning as needed.
Garnish with herbs before serving warm.

Turkey & Veggie Mini Meatloaves

Perfectly portioned, protein-packed, and freezer-friendly—these mini meatloaves make weeknight dinners or meal prep simple and satisfying.

Nutrition (estimated per mini loaf)
Makes 8 mini loaves — Calories: ~120 • Protein: ~12–13 g • Carbs: ~6–7 g • Fat: ~4–5 g • Fiber: ~1 g • Sugar: ~1–2 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground turkey
½ cup finely diced onion
½ cup grated zucchini or carrots
½ cup oat flour or crushed whole-grain crackers
1 egg
1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a muffin tin.
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until evenly blended.
Divide the mixture into 8–10 muffin cups and press lightly to shape.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
Allow to cool slightly before removing from the pan.

Protein Rice Krispy Treats

A nostalgic classic with a better balance of protein and crunch.

Nutrition (estimated per square)
Pan yields 24 squares — Calories: ~95–105 • Protein: ~3–4 g • Carbs: ~15–17 g • Fat: ~1–2 g • Fiber: ~0–1 g • Sugar: ~9–11 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

Ingredients

3 tbsp butter
6 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup ProCare Health Whey Protein Powder
6 cups Rice Krispies® cereal

Directions

In a large pot, melt butter over low heat.
Add marshmallows and stir until smooth and melted.
Remove from heat, quickly mix in protein powder until combined.
Stir in Rice Krispies® until fully coated.
Press mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 pan using a greased spatula or wax paper.
Let cool for 1–2 hours before slicing.

Caramel Apples with Calcium Chews

A fun, bite-sized twist on a seasonal favorite—made with ProCare Health’s Sea Salted Caramel Calcium Soft Chews for a balanced sweet treat.

Nutrition (estimated per plate)
Serves 1 — Calories: ~150–180 • Protein: ~2–3 g • Carbs: ~30–35 g • Fat: ~2–4 g • Fiber: ~4–5 g • Sugar: ~24–28 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

Ingredients

2 ProCare Health Sea Salted Caramel Calcium Soft Chews
2 tbsp milk
1 apple, sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Optional: berries, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for topping

Directions

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt calcium chews with milk, stirring until smooth.
Arrange apple slices on a serving plate.
Drizzle the caramel mixture over the apples.
Add your favorite toppings if desired and serve immediately.

Christmas & Holiday Gatherings: Celebrate with Confidence

December often brings potlucks, parties, and family dinners—but with a few intentional choices, you can enjoy every occasion while staying comfortable and balanced.

Mindful Holiday Strategies

Bring a bariatric-friendly dish: You’ll know there’s something you can enjoy that fits your preferences.
Eat consistently: Skipping meals earlier in the day can make it harder to stay mindful later.
Focus on connection: Shift your attention to conversations, laughter, and memories instead of just the menu.
Rethink your drinks: Choose sparkling water, sugar-free cider, or a protein hot cocoa instead of sugary cocktails.

Bariatric-Friendly Holiday Recipes You’ll Actually Love

Cranberry Protein Cheesecake Bites

A creamy, high-protein dessert that delivers all the flavor of classic cheesecake in a lighter, portion-friendly form.

Nutrition (estimated per bite)
Makes 24 mini bites — Calories: ~55–65 • Protein: ~3–4 g • Carbs: ~3–4 g • Fat: ~3 g • Sugar: ~1–2 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

Ingredients

8 oz light cream cheese, softened
¾ cup non-fat Greek yogurt
1 scoop ProCare Health Whey Protein Powder
2 tbsp sugar-free sweetener (optional, to taste)
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ cup sugar-free cranberry sauce or preserves

Directions

Preheat oven to 325°F and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
In a bowl, blend cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
Add protein powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
Spoon a small amount of the mixture into each liner, filling about ¾ full.
Add a small dollop of cranberry sauce on top of each bite.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until slightly set.
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Turkey & Veggie Soup with Bone Broth

A cozy, protein-packed soup ideal for cooler days or as a simple, nourishing meal.

Turkey & Veggie Soup with Bone Broth

Nutrition (estimated per serving)
Makes 6 servings — Calories: ~140–160 • Protein: ~18–20 g • Carbs: ~6–8 g • Fat: ~4–6 g • Fiber: ~1–2 g • Sugar: ~2–3 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

A cozy, protein-packed soup ideal for cooler days or as a simple, nourishing meal.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 garlic clove, minced
3 cups cooked, shredded turkey (or chicken)
4 cups low-sodium bone broth
1 cup chopped spinach or kale
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Add turkey, bone broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Stir in spinach or kale until wilted.
Serve warm and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tip: Use leftover Thanksgiving turkey for a quick, nourishing meal that feels fresh and satisfying.

Sugar-Free Peppermint Hot Cocoa

Nutrition (estimated per serving)
Serves 1 — Calories: ~90–110 • Protein: ~12–14 g • Carbs: ~4–5 g • Fat: ~2–3 g • Fiber: ~1 g • Sugar: ~1–2 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

A warm, chocolatey classic made lighter with simple swaps—perfect for sipping by the tree.

Ingredients

1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
½ scoop unflavored ProCare Health Whey Protein Powder
¼ tsp peppermint extract
Sweetener of your choice, to taste
Optional toppings: light whipped cream, crushed sugar-free peppermint candy

Directions

In a small saucepan, whisk together cocoa powder and milk over low heat until well combined.
Stir in protein powder and peppermint extract. Whisk until smooth and warmed through.
Pour into a mug, sweeten to taste, and add toppings if desired.

Tip: For a frothier texture, blend in a handheld frother before serving.

Protein Eggnog Shake

Nutrition (estimated per serving)
Serves 1 — Calories: ~160–180 • Protein: ~24–26 g • Carbs: ~5–6 g • Fat: ~4 g • Fiber: ~0–1 g • Sugar: ~2–3 g
Note: Estimates use common label values; actuals vary by brand and portion size.

A festive shake that captures the cozy flavor of eggnog in a light, balanced way.

Ingredients

1 scoop ProCare Health Whey Protein Powder
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
½ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp sugar-free pudding mix (vanilla or butterscotch)
Optional: a few ice cubes

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Taste and adjust spices if desired.
Pour into a glass and sprinkle with extra nutmeg for a festive finish.

Tip: This shake can also be warmed gently on the stovetop for a cozy, latte-style twist.

A Season for Grace & Gratitude

The holidays are about presence, gratitude, and taking care of yourself in ways that feel right for you. Whether you’re focusing on balanced meals, learning new traditions, or simply practicing mindfulness at the table, every small choice supports your wellbeing.

From our ProCare Health family to yours—wishing you a festive, balanced, and joyful holiday season. 💜

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Festive & Balanced: Bariatric & GLP-1 Friendly Holiday Recipes to Enjoy the Season