Thanksgiving Nutritional Tips
The holiday season is fully upon us with Thanksgiving being celebrated across the country this week, BJJ Fanatics thought it would be helpful to share some nutritional tips to help you stay on course when confronted with those seemingly endless days of gorging oneself on tons of turkey and all the fixings that come along with them, while still enjoying the festivities with your family and friends.
Stay Extra Hydrated
It is always important to stay as hydrated as possible for a wide variety of health reasons, like maintaining energy levels and such, drinking lots of water can help keep you full and satisfied. Studies have shown that many times when we are feeling "hungry" we are actually just under-hydrated. Drink lots of water and be better prepared when you head to those holiday parties and family gatherings.
Intermittent Fasting
Holidays like Thanksgiving can revolve around food. Rather than spend your entire day eating, give intermittent fasting a try creating periods of upwards of 14 hours a day when you don't eat, focusing on water and drinks like coffee and tea. These periods of non eating will help regulate your body and metabolism and help minimize the damage of the huge meals you may be confronted with.
Avoid Starchy Carbs
When at your holiday parties and dinners, fill up on protein and veggies whenever you possibly can. By avoiding that mound of mashed potatoes or those buckets of yams, you will help keep yourself from entering into those food comas which have a tendency to simply create vicious cycles of over eating.
Holiday Open Mats/Class
Whenever possible, get on the mats, whether it be a class or a holiday open mat. Even if you're traveling, take some time to contact some local BJJ academies and maybe you'll meet a new friend or two who share your passion for training wherever you are visiting.
