Conquer Holiday Feast Discomfort With This Simple Trick
The holidays are a time for delicious feasts, bringing family and friends together over plates piled high with traditional dishes. But let’s be honest, sometimes that post-meal feeling isn’t quite as joyful. Feeling bloated, sluggish, and downright uncomfortable can quickly put a damper on the holiday spirit.
But there’s a simple solution that can help you feel your best after indulging: hydration.
"After eating a big meal, you may not feel like you can ingest anything else, but sipping water afterward can make you feel better by keeping you hydrated," says Shelley Balls, M.D.A., RDN, LDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist.
Hydration helps you feel better in several key ways. First, it supports digestion by moving food smoothly through your digestive system and aids in flushing out excess sodium – a common culprit in post-meal bloating. Staying hydrated also helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing those dreaded energy crashes that often follow a meal packed with sugary treats and refined carbohydrates.
Think of it this way: after a big meal, your body needs a helping hand to process everything. Water acts like a gentle nudge, keeping things moving smoothly and preventing backups that lead to discomfort.
While staying hydrated is key, there are other strategies to combat that post-feast feeling:
- Fiber is your friend: Start your day after a big meal with fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and whole grains. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and supports gut health, helping relieve any lingering sluggishness.
- Ditch the sugary drinks: Sugary beverages can lead to blood sugar spikes, making you feel even more tired and bloated. Stick to water, herbal teas, or refreshing water infused with fruits for hydration that won’t throw your system off balance.
- Get Moving: Don’t let a full stomach keep you confined to the couch. Even a light walk around your neighborhood can help regulate blood sugar levels, boost energy, and aid digestion.
When it comes to enjoying holiday feasts without the aftermath, remember the power of hydration. And by incorporating these simple strategies, you can savor the joy of the season without feeling weighed down by post-meal discomfort.
