Dealing with that post-pie bloat
Thanksgiving is a time for coming together with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and, of course, enjoying a delicious feast.
It's no secret that many of us tend to overeat during this holiday, leaving us feeling sluggish and guilty afterward.
While I don’t encourage overeating, I know it happens! Even to nutrition practitioners. It’s completely normal, and it’s essential to remember that overindulging during Thanksgiving is super duper common.
First, stop beating yourself up about it. It’s A-OK and your body knows how to deal. Give it time. Second, it was actually good for you in some ways, and we’ll get into why… and THIRD: there are lots of ways to move forward with GRACE for yourself. Keep reading if you want to know how.
Feasting for Mental Health
Food is an integral part of our cultural traditions, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Sharing a hearty meal with family and friends fosters a sense of togetherness and strengthens bonds. According to studies, social interactions and shared meals have a positive impact on mental health. Creating cherished memories with loved ones around food can significantly contribute to our overall well-being.
The Importance of Creating Good Memories
Thanksgiving is not just about the food; it's about the memories we create. The laughter, conversations, and shared moments are what make this holiday special. Research has shown that positive memories are essential for mental health and can even reduce stress and anxiety. So, focus on cherishing these moments rather than dwelling on the extra servings you had at dinner.
The Aftermath of Overeating
Overeating on Thanksgiving is super normal, and you're not alone in feeling a bit too full. Consuming a large, rich meal can lead to temporary discomfort, bloating, and even drowsiness. You may have heard that turkey is responsible for making you feel tired due to its tryptophan content, but it's not the sole culprit.
The overall indulgent nature of the meal and the high carbohydrate content play a more significant role in post-feast fatigue.
Moving Forward Gracefully
After a Thanksgiving feast, it's crucial not to overthink your indulgence. Instead, focus on moving forward in a healthy and positive way. Here are six tips to help you bounce forward gracefully:
Go for a Walk: Engage in a light, post-meal walk to aid digestion and boost your energy levels.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help flush out excess sodium and reduce bloating.
Don't Skip Meals: Resist the temptation to skip meals to make up for Thanksgiving overindulgence. Maintain a regular eating schedule to keep your metabolism steady.
Opt for Balanced Meals: In the days following Thanksgiving, prioritize balanced meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables to help your body recover.
Practice Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your body's hunger cues, and savor your food slowly to prevent overeating in the future.
Embrace Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity to counteract the effects of overindulgence and boost your overall well-being. Don’t wait til you feel “better” to keep up with your workout routine. Just show up, even if you feel a little puffy.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate the abundance of food and the love of family and friends. Overeating during this holiday is normal, as food is an essential part of creating lasting memories.
By embracing the positive aspects of feasting and practicing self-compassion, you can bounce forward gracefully after a hearty Thanksgiving meal.
Remember that the most valuable gift you can give yourself and your loved ones is the joy of shared moments and cherished memories.
