Digestive Track Holiday Prep
To prep your digestive system for a Thanksgiving feast, focus on staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, eat fiber-rich foods to promote regular bowel movements, practice mindful eating to chew thoroughly, limit fatty foods, avoid trigger foods that upset your stomach, consider adding probiotics to your diet through fermented foods or supplements, and manage stress levels as it can negatively impact digestion.
Key points to remember:
Hydration:
Drink water consistently before, during, and after the meal to aid digestion and prevent feeling overly full.
Fiber intake:
Include vegetables and whole grains in your meals to add fiber and support regular bowel movements.
Mindful eating:
Chew your food thoroughly and pay attention to your body's hunger cues to avoid overeating.
Limit fatty foods:
Be mindful of high-fat dishes as they can slow down digestion and cause discomfort.
Probiotics:
Consider adding fermented foods like yogurt or taking probiotic supplements to support healthy gut bacteria.
Stress management:
Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress which can negatively impact digestion.
Avoid trigger foods:
Identify foods that typically upset your stomach and limit them during the meal.
Physical exertion can stimulate the appetite. And a brisk walk or run helps move food through your digestive system and empty out your stomach in preparation. Finally, it's easier to eat a lot if you're relaxed.