Turkey trots; gratitude in medicine; pass the gravy, share the risk – Morning Medical Update

Turkey trots

Turkey trot races continue their rise as a national Thanksgiving ritual, with more than 1.1 million participants expected this year, according to early RunSignup data. Beyond the family fun and mental reset before a day of indulgence, these morning miles may offer meaningful metabolic gains. Florida State University nutrition expert Jennifer Farrell, M.S., notes that the “afterburn effect” can keep metabolic rate elevated for up to 14 hours after vigorous exercise — a boon on a day built around big meals. Farrell also highlights benefits for glucose control, digestion and GI motility, even for participants who choose more of a “turkey walk” than a run.

Gratitude in medicine

In a recent blog, American Hospital Association (AHA) President & CEO Rick Pollack highlights gratitude as a sustaining force across health care — one that strengthens connection, bolsters well-being and supports a healthier workplace culture. He shares stories from Utah to Pennsylvania about how simple gestures can profoundly affect patients, families and physicians alike.

Pollack notes that while hospitals have faced another challenging year, gratitude remains a catalyst for resilience, reminding teams why their work matters and reinforcing the deeply human core of medical care.

Pass the gravy, share the risk

Mayo Clinic experts say the Thanksgiving dinner table is the perfect time for families to compare notes on health history — a simple conversation that can flag hereditary risks for GI disorders, cancer and heart disease. Gastroenterologist Joseph Murray, M.D., notes that food-avoidant behaviors may hint at conditions like celiac disease or eosinophilic esophagitis.

Family medicine physician John Presutti, D.O., emphasizes that about 10% of cancers are inherited, and early discussions can guide targeted screening for BRCA-related cancers, Lynch syndrome and familial hypercholesterolemia. With early-onset GI cancers rising, physicians may want to encourage patients to use Thanksgiving and future holidays as prompts to gather family health details and follow up with appropriate preventive care.