We’ve all been there. The turkey has been carved, the pie has been sliced, and your pants feel about two sizes smaller than when you put them on this morning. Delicious but miserable.
But what if Thanksgiving didn’t have to end in discomfort and indigestion? What if you could enjoy all your favorite holiday foods and still feel good at the end of the day?
Tips
- Don’t skip meals
- Stay hydrated
- Move your body
Don’t Skip Meals
Skipping breakfast and/or lunch to “make room” for Thanksgiving dinner is almost as much of a tradition as the Macy’s parade. But not eating all day in anticipation of one huge meal actually sets you up to overeat at dinner.
When you don’t eat all day, by the time the turkey is on the table you will be over-hungry. When we are over-hungry, we tend to eat anything and everything we can reach without taking the time to listen to our body and make intentional choices that will taste AND feel good.
By eating normally earlier in the day, you can approach the Thanksgiving table with intention. You can still enjoy all your favorite dishes, but you might notice that you’re less interested in the sides you tend to eat just because they’re there. You will also be able to listen to your body better and stop eating before you reach the point of discomfort.
Stay Hydrated
Water is SO important to keeping your digestion running smoothly. But it also does so much more for you like keeping your body the right temperature, delivering nutrients to every part of your body, and keeping you energized and clear headed.
For many people, there is also more alcohol present on Thanksgiving. Drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration, which is a major factor in many Black Friday hangovers.
How much water to drink is a common question. When in doubt, aim to get at least eight 8 ounce glasses of water during the day. Add at least another 8-12 ounces of water for each alcoholic drink you have.
Move Your Body
While it can be tempting to sit on the couch watching football all day, your body will thank you for getting up and moving around. Physical activity supports good digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and helps you keep a positive mindset.
While some people will want to sign up for their local Turkey Trot, you don’t need to run a race to be active. Some of my favorite Thanksgiving activities include going for a walk, kicking around a soccer ball, and having a family dance party!
Thanksgiving day ending in a food coma is a thing of the past. With these easy tips, you can enjoy your holiday meal and still feel good at the end of the day.
Happy Thanksgiving!
