To Eat or Not To Eat?

Contributed by: Ciara Floyd, M.S., NSCF-CPT, NSCA- CSCS

During the holidays people tend to overindulge on the array of tasty foods offered. There are plenty of parties, and get togethers with family and friends that lend themselves to overindulgence. Some people expect to gain a few pounds during the holidays and get back on their normal regimen come January 1st. But gaining a few pounds during the holidays may not be the only negative associated with “pigging out” over the holidays.

When you eat, your stomach produces acid which aids in digestion. Overeating can lead to more production of acid and if the acid makes its way to your esophagus, hello heartburn. Try eating smaller portions of the holiday favorites to decrease your risk of heartburn.

Secondly when you eat a large meal more blood is sent to your digestive system to help digest the food leaving less blood flow to the rest of your body. This often leads to a feeling of sluggishness felt after holiday meals. Again, the way to combat this feeling is to eat smaller portions. Smaller portions allow you to try more of what is available, without the negative effects on your body.

Although the holidays are a great time to gather with family and friends and celebrate, be mindful of your portions or a few pounds gained over the holidays may not be all that is in store.

Source:
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/what-happens-to-your-body-over-the-holidays?utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=daily#2