Many people are trying to eat healthier. Eating clean meats that are grass-fed and free range, as well a gluten-free diet, is all the rage. But can that translate to the traditional Thanksgiving meal? In one word: yes!

I ventured into new territory this year and reserved a free range turkey, with no hormones, no antibiotics and non-GMO through a local grocery store. It was "on sale" at $2.99 per pound. All I know is this better be the best bird ever!

What do free range, grass fed and GMO mean?

Free range refers to a method where animals, for at least part of the day, can roam freely outdoors rather than being confined in an enclosure for 24-hours each day. 

On many farms, the outdoors ranging area is fenced, thereby technically making this an enclosure, however, free range systems usually offer the opportunity for extensive movement and sunlight prevented by indoor housing systems. Grass fed refers to livestock being fed natural grasses instead of processed grains or corn.

Look for hormone-free, antibiotic-free and non-GMO birds as well. GMO is a genetically modified organism.

Gluten free means, obviously, without gluten. Gluten is a substance present in cereal grains, especially wheat, that is responsible for the elastic texture of dough. A mixture of two proteins, it causes illness in people with Celiac disease, but may also be the cause of many gut issues, specifically inflammation, bloating, gas and constipation. Yuck!

So, if you're wanting to eat healthier this Thanksgiving or have been prescribed a gluten-free diet, you may want to go the free range route. Look for turkeys that have not been injected. The stuff they inject into the turkey usually has gluten.

A gluten-free Thanksgiving dinner

Can you have the traditional thanksgiving fair and remain gluten-free? Well, I ran into some interesting substitutions.

Instead of the traditional cornbread or bread dressing, you might want to try these gluten free recipes instead: Rice Stuffing with Apples, Herbs and Bacon, or a Gluten-Free Herbal Bread Dressing,

Instead of traditional pumpkin pie, you could make one of these Thanksgiving desserts: Vegan Pumpkin Pie Squares with Gluten-Free Graham Cracker Crust; Gluten-Free & Vegan Maple Nut Cake; and No Bake Double Chocolate Torte.

I even found a recipe for Gluten-free cranberry sauce!

And it you're like our family, you gotta have rolls for Thanksgiving dinner. You might want to try these Gluten-free pull apart rolls.

If it all seems like to much to do or take in during the hustle and bustle of the holiday, don't be afraid to just eat up however you want and promise yourself to get back to your routine Friday.

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