Overindulging

12/16/20
Overindulgence

Christmas and New Year’s are fast approaching, maybe they’ve already passed by the time you’re reading this article. How many times have you heard or maybe even you’ve said something along the lines of “Ugh...I’ve eaten so much this weekend I shouldn't eat for a week.” So, let’s look at this. The holidays are meant to be enjoyed. Enjoying family and friends (small groups only this year, of course) and savoring some of your favorite holiday treats. With this can come eating more sweets and more calories in general also known as “overindulging”. Practicing moderation (having a few bites then tossing the rest, or 1 or 2 of your favorite things) here would be key, however this is something that should be practiced so if you’re not there yet, don't worry.  So, let’s say you ate more than necessary around holidays and you’re feeling bloated, tired and “off” in general. Should you actually not eat for a week? No!

So, what should you do? Eat normally, move in a way that feels good. Now, if your “normal” eating isn’t effective for helping you feel good, then you may need to reassess your current situation. What I’m talking about is eating plenty of fiber.  Think raw sauerkraut to get your guts feeling better, lots of fresh and cooked veggies however you like them, fruits and “tolerable to you grains” and some lean protein. Intense exercise may or may not feel great after some extra eating. Listen to your body here. A long walk could feel great, lifting heavy weights might also feel amazing and you’re likely to hit some PRs due to some extra glycogen (carbs) stored in your muscle tissue. It’s important to note that I’m not talking about “burning off the extra calories”, I’m simply talking about moving to get your body feeling more normal, regulating your digestion and getting your mind clear from some sugar fog.  

Sure, doing an extreme diet after the holidays might be tempting but, eating whole unprocessed foods, drinking water, moving however feels good and making sleep a top priority will not only get you feeling better, but possibly feeling better than before than the holidays. The key to this is being consistent. Showing up everyday and doing the work necessary to feel your best. 

Eating some extra food around the holidays really isn't a big deal. Our bodies are very adaptive and can adjust to some extra calories here and there. Regardless, before diving face first into the sugar cookies, take a minute and think about if you really want one. If the answer is “yes”, eat one, if the answer is “no”, you don't actually have to eat it just because it’s Christmas. This year has been a weird one and the holiday season is no different, so enjoy every minute of your weird Christmas and don't stress about the extra food. 

Schedule a visit with our in house nutritional therapist, Hannah Roeter BS, FNTP