Thanksgiving is a holiday for gratitude, generosity and gobbling up food. It’s undoubtedly the biggest food holiday in the United States as more than 46 million turkeys are eaten in one day alone. That’s not including the stuffing, cranberry sauce and mashed potatoes.
A majority of Americans experience gastric issues after the meal, leading to worries about calories and overeating, or questions like, 'Why am I so tired?.'
As a body physiology expert and gut health expert at Plexus Worldwide, these are my simple recommendations to keep Arizona residents’ gut-healthy after a turkey takedown.
Why Am I So Tired?
A common myth is that we get tired after Thanksgiving because of the tryptophan in turkey. Truthfully, a turkey has as much of this amino acid as other common meats and it’s not enough to cause drowsiness.
A typical Thanksgiving meal is stacked with carbohydrates, starches and sugars. When eaten in excess, the stomach will grow to make room and the body will experience a sudden spike in blood sugar, leading to the inevitable fall later.
Mindful Eating
The best tip for this holiday is to practice mindful eating. Remember these two words: slow and swap. Be sure to eat slowly as it encourages healthy digestion. Studies show that people who scarf down food tend to eat more calories than those who take their time and an indulgence of calories causes more work for your body.
Feel free to also swap your rich dishes for something lighter or replace foods that you know will cause discomfort. If you want to enjoy foods that you know you’ll regret later, simply take smaller portions. Going back for seconds is an option but give the body time to process the first portion and remember to hydrate to keep things moving.
Probiotics and prebiotics will also move things along, if you need the extra help.
Wait Before Sleeping
Think twice before collapsing on the couch after feasting. The body is under stress and an onslaught of hormones, causing you to feel tired.
While a nap seems tempting it can lead to acid reflux. I recommend waiting at least two hours before lying down after a big meal. Instead, reach for an 8-ounce glass of water and take a light walk around the neighborhood. It’s a great way to wish your neighbors a happy holiday while taking the load off your gut.
If you must take a nap, here’s another tip; sleep on your left side and keep antacids by the bed.
Balance
The main tip to keep in mind is balance.
When we overeat, our body struggles to process excess calories. This disrupts hunger hormones, potentially leading to weight gain and health complications.
While occasional overeating is normal, especially during the holidays, consistent overconsumption can seriously impact our well-being. The key is listening to our body's natural hunger and fullness signals.
To ensure you enjoy more energetic times with your loved ones and family, treat your gut kindly this Thanksgiving.
