Happy Thanksgiving From Quality Health! Estimates vary, but an average, traditional Thanksgiving meal is around 3,000 calories! To put it into perspective, the recommended daily calorie intake for an average-sized adult should be between 1,600 and 2,400. And in order to burn off 3,000 calories, one would have to walk 30 miles or swim for five hours or run for about four hours. We want to introduce you to lighter and healthier recipes for your Thanksgiving meal so that you can enjoy the holiday with your family and friends without worrying about packing on extra pounds. Did You Know… On average Americans gain 7 lbs during the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas!