Health Tips for the Holidays
Recently I was asked to write a health tips article for the holiday’s for Tennessee Christian Living Magazine. I thought I would share the article below- Happy Thanksgiving!
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The holidays are a wonderful time of family gatherings, gift exchanges, colorful decorations, bright lights and food; lots and lots of food. To go along with the abundance of delicious holiday cooking we enjoy lounging around on the couch to chat, watch television and catch up on rest and relaxation. It really is the most wonderful time of the year; that is, until we get on the scale or try on our jeans. The next thing we know, it’s New Years Day and we are making our New Years resolutions, with “lose weight” on the top of the list.
Here are a few tips to enjoying the holidays while maintaining some healthy habits:
Tip #1 Don’t Eat the Kitchen Sink
The holidays are the most tempting times for overeating and we all know that Thanksgiving Day is the king tempter. Every dish looks delicious, so for starters try getting smaller portions of every dish and eating slowly. By eating smaller portions at a slower pace the body will feel satisfied without feeling stuffed.
Tip #2 Take a Walk
Rest is not only good for our bodies-it is a necessity to maintaining a healthy lifestyle; but so is exercise. Try taking a brisk walk sometime during the day, going to a park or playing with a child outside. Even a small amount of exercise is better than none at all. The benefits to exercise are vast and include but are not limited to better cardiovascular health, circulation, strength, and overall well being.
Tip #3 Don’t Pass the Turkey
Turkey is not only delicious but good for you too. Turkey provides protein which is essential for the body to function properly. Protein is an important component to bodily process related to metabolism, it’s needed to build muscles, and is important in repairing cells. Turkey is a source of selenium which is essential for the body but only needed in small amounts. Selenium produces antioxidant enzymes and helps prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Enjoy the healthy benefits of leftover turkey in soups, casseroles and sandwiches.
Tip #4 Enjoy All That God Has Made To the Glory of God
God has made food for us to enjoy! So enjoy the Holidays and enjoy the food God has so kindly provided (see 1 Timothy 6:17). While we enjoy our food, we are also to remember that, “whether [we] eat or drink, or whatever [we] do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10: 31). Make this holiday a little different by leaving the sink in the kitchen and strapping on some walking shoes.
By Trillia Newbell
Scripture Quotations are from the Holy Bible, English Standard Version ®, Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, A Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
