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The One Thing You Should Do for a Healthier Thanksgiving

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November 14, 2023
Photo Credit: Garage Island Crew

So. Much. Food. That’s the thing about Thanksgiving, right? We don’t know about you, but we don’t want to think about limiting ourselves or sacrificing at Thanksgiving; the entire holiday is built around abundance. And yet, no one wants to feel uncomfortable sluggish and bloated after dinner.

The solution? Take a walk after dinner.

Why you should walk after Thanksgiving dinner

Taking a walk after a big meal — even one as short as 15 minuteshelps with blood sugar regulation, especially later in the day, when the body’s ability to do that is at its weakest. Moving around after a big meal also helps aid digestion, and can lower the risk of heartburn and reflux.

Plus, not everyone’s holiday meal is right out of a Norman Rockwell painting. If your family dynamics run toward the tense, taking a walk after the meal can help reduce stress, giving you a break from Uncle Pete’s relentless jokes at your expense or the annual battle royale over politics.

So before you settle in to watch football or volunteer to help with the dishes, excuse yourself and take the dog (or just yourself) for a post-meal walk. Better yet, see who else wants to come along!

Enjoy a healthy holiday

If you would rather not deal with that sluggish, lethargic feeling after Thanksgiving, try giving your dishes a nutritious twist this year. Try cooking your sides in the air fryer, bake some healthy desserts, or even skip the fatty appetizers and opt for a colorful grazing board instead. With all of these energizing nutrients, your meal will not only leave you feeling satiated but motivated to continue enjoying the company you love on this festive culinary holiday.

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