Thanksgiving Traditions to Enhance Health and Wellness

Thanksgiving Traditions to Enhance Health and Wellness

November 28, 2024 at 9:00 am

A warm Thanksgiving gathering, highlighting community and gratitude.

Mind

Give Thanks

Research shows gratitude can lead to better health outcomes. Leah Buturain Schneider, a gerontologist, states, ‘Gratitude works.’ It’s not just a feeling but a behavior we can practice daily, aiming to connect and appreciate those around us.

Serve up Strong Relationships

Thanksgiving fosters family connections, which are vital as social isolation can be detrimental to health. Schneider notes, ‘Until age 80, most people say they want to be healthy. After 80, what matters most are relationships.’

Extend a Helping Hand

Helping others can provide health benefits to the giver. ‘We feel most alive when using our gifts,’ Schneider expresses, emphasizing the importance of continual support beyond holidays.

Body

Make Lunch your Largest Meal

Eating earlier in the day can boost metabolism and health. Dietitian Cary Kreutzer advises, ‘Our bodies burn calories efficiently during the day.’

Move After Meals

Engaging in physical activity post-meal can aid digestion and overall health. ‘Thanksgiving is the perfect time to begin incorporating movement into your day,’ Kreutzer promotes.

Leave some Leftovers

Practicing portion control is key, as Kreutzer states, ‘Three to four ounces of protein is sufficient for most people.’

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