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5 tips to alleviate constipation after Thanksgiving from a top gut health doctor

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5 tips to alleviate constipation after Thanksgiving from a top gut health doctor

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Americans eat an average of 3,000 to 4,500 calories at Thanksgiving meals, according to estimates by the Calorie Control Council — and much of that comes from foods that are richer and heavier than people might typically eat.

For many, that can lead to digestive challenges in the hours and days following Thanksgiving — with constipation topping the list.

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Even outside the holiday, the condition affects 42 million Americans each day, according to Dr. Daryl Gioffre, gut health specialist, celebrity nutritionist and founder of Alkamind in New York.

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“In fact, the average person has 5 to 15 pounds of impacted fecal matter inside their gut,” he said in a video shared with Fox News Digital.

If things aren’t moving like they should, it may be tempting to reach for the laxatives — but a doctor says this isn’t a good idea. (iStock)

If things aren’t moving like they should, it may be tempting to reach for the laxatives — but Gioffre cautions against that approach.

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“When used long-term, laxatives can cause significant harm to your digestive system and overall health,” he told Fox News Digital.  

3 DIET AND HEALTH TIPS FOR SOMEONE STRUGGLING WITH IBS

“They work by forcing water from your organs into the colon to soften stools, which massively dehydrates your body and leaves vital organs like your kidneys and brain underhydrated.”

Over time, this can lead to dependency, weakening the muscles in the intestines and making it harder for your body to have natural bowel movements, Gioffre said. 

“Laxatives can also disrupt your gut microbiome, cause nutrient deficiencies and trigger dangerous electrolyte imbalances,” he added.

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Man digestive issues

“The average person has 5 to 15 pounds of impacted fecal matter inside their gut,” a doctor told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

The doctor shared with Fox News Digital his top natural tips for getting digestion back on track.

“Add these things on a daily basis, and I promise this will help you gently get the bad stuff out and move you into a much healthier, stronger gut state,” he said.

1. Increase fiber intake

Fiber is critical to digestive health, according to Gioffre.

“When we have more fiber-rich foods, it’s like brushing the inner walls of our intestines — and that’s going to help us remove the constipation and get to where we want to go,” the doctor said.

Constipation affects 42 million Americans each day.

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Some of his suggested fiber-rich foods are quinoa, wild rice, sweet potatoes, root vegetables, and squashes like winter squash and spaghetti squash.

“Add fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut for probiotics and enzymes that optimize digestion,” the doctor added.

When planning fiber intake, Gioffre’s guidance is to add half a cup per meal, not to exceed one full cup per day. 

4 HOLIDAY NUTRITION TIPS FROM DR. NICOLE SAPHIER: ‘EVERYTHING IN MODERATION’

The doctor also recommends what he calls an “internal shower shot,” which is a mixture of 6 ounces of water, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, the juice from one lemon slice and a pinch of sea salt. 

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“When you drink this on an empty stomach, it’s going to go into all the little nooks and crannies of your gut … and it’s going to help you start to detoxify and gently give you that ‘internal shower’ effect.”

2. Reduce inflammation

“At the end of the day, we don’t die of old age — we die of inflammation,” Gioffre cautioned. 

The doctor compared the gut to a “big, hollow tube.”

“When it’s open, you’re good. When you’re inflamed, not so good.”

Fiber foods

Suggestions for fiber-rich foods include quinoa, wild rice, sweet potatoes, root vegetables, and squashes like winter squash and spaghetti squash. (iStock)

Some plant-based foods that lower inflammation include chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, avocado and coconut oil.

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“These are packed with omega-3s and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which reduce inflammation, support gut lining repair and lubricate the digestive tract to ease constipation,” Gioffre said. 

HOLIDAY GATHERINGS CAN LEAD TO STRESS EATING: TRY THESE 5 TIPS TO CONTROL IT

For those who eat animal products, the doctor recommends wild-caught salmon, mackerel, trout, anchovies and sardines. 

He also offers a recipe for detox tea on the Alkamind website, which includes turmeric, ginger, pepper, lemon and his “Acid-Kicking Greens.” 

3. Add magnesium-rich foods

Magnesium is a nutrient that is commonly used to relieve constipation.

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“It’s the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, but the biggest single deficiency in the American population,” Gioffre said.

“Magnesium is a game-changer for digestion, brain health and beating constipation, yet the standard American diet is severely lacking it,” Gioffre said. 

Magnesium-rich foods

The doctor recommends consuming magnesium-rich foods, including leafy greens like spinach, kale and chard, as well as green juice, green smoothies and green soups.

“These magnesium-rich powerhouses relax your intestinal muscles, soften stools and keep things moving, all while feeding your healthy gut bacteria,” Gioffre told Fox News Digital.  

“Water is essential for softening stools and promoting regularity, yet 90% of us are chronically dehydrated.”

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A high-quality magnesium supplement can also combat this deficiency and give the body the support it needs, he added.

“You can also do an Epsom salts bath, which is magnesium sulfate,” he added, or apply magnesium lotion to the skin.

4. Stay hydrated

Hydration is “absolutely critical” for relieving constipation and promoting healthy digestion, the doctor told Fox News Digital. 

Woman drinking water

Hydration is “absolutely critical” for relieving constipation and promoting healthy digestion, a doctor told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“My mantra is solution by dilution first — water is essential for softening stools and promoting regularity, yet 90% of us are chronically dehydrated,” he said.

“Think of your body like a wilting plant — when it lacks water, it struggles and dies, but when properly hydrated, it thrives.”

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Instead of turning to medications and laxatives for constipation, he recommends drinking more water. 

“Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water each day to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly,” he advised.

5. Keep moving

Movement is also key to promoting digestive health, Gioffre said. 

“Physical activity increases blood flow to your digestive organs and stimulates bowel motility,” he told Fox News Digital. 

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One of his favorite, cost-effective exercises for relieving constipation is using a rebounder (mini trampoline). 

Senior exercise

Movement is also key to promoting digestive health, Gioffre said. “Physical activity increases blood flow to your digestive organs and stimulates bowel motility,” an exprert told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“This gentle, low-impact exercise not only improves circulation, but also stimulates the digestive tract, helping to get things moving naturally,” he said.

“Combining proper hydration with regular movement creates a powerful, drug-free strategy to support digestive health and prevent constipation.”

When to see a doctor

If you suffer from persistent constipation that lasts for more than three weeks — even after making lifestyle changes like improving diet, increasing hydration and exercise — it’s recommended to see a doctor. 

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Gioffre added, “You should also seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss, or if constipation alternates with diarrhea, as these could indicate more serious underlying conditions requiring further evaluation.” 

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Navigating Thanksgiving with heart disease: What to eat and what to avoid

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Navigating Thanksgiving with heart disease: What to eat and what to avoid

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This week, many American families will sit down to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal together — but those who live with a heart condition may need to put some extra thought into what goes on the plate.

Nearly half of U.S. adults live with some type of cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association — and diet has a major impact on the risk of heart attack and stroke.

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“Thanksgiving is a holiday that often results in overindulgence of food and alcohol, which can pose a risk to individuals with known or unknown heart disease,” Dr. Philip Nimoityn, clinical assistant professor of medicine at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, told Fox News Digital.

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Dr. Sam Setareh, a cardiologist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, often sees the effects of that overindulgence. 

Doctors offer tips on Thanksgiving foods to embrace and foods to avoid for people with heart disease. (iStock)

“Every year after Thanksgiving, I see patients that present to the emergency room or my clinic with heart failure exacerbation, hypertensive emergency or diabetic crisis,” he told Fox News Digital.

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Foods to avoid 

Salty, high-sodium foods are the main cause of congestive heart failure exacerbation and high blood pressure, according to Setareh. 

“Canned gravies, processed meats (such as ham and sausage stuffing), and salty snacks can lead to fluid retention and elevated blood pressure,” he said. 

Instead, he recommends opting for homemade alternatives with no added salt.

JUST 5 MINUTES OF EXERCISE COULD REDUCE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, STUDY FINDS

Trans fats and saturated fats can raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, Setareh said.

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To prevent that, he recommends avoiding buttery mashed potatoes, heavy cream-based casseroles, gravy and store-bought baked goods.

When it comes to meats, Nimoityn suggests avoidingfo the fattier choices.

“Thanksgiving is a holiday that often results in overindulgence of food and alcohol, which can pose a risk to individuals with known or unknown heart disease.”

“Dark turkey meat from the thigh and leg contains significantly more fat than white meat, and ham contains significantly more sodium than turkey,” he said.

Also steer clear of store-bought cranberry sauce, advised Dr. Alan Rozanski, a professor of medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine and director of nuclear cardiology at Mount Sinai St. Luke in New York City.

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“They’re often packed with added sugar,” he warned.

Thanksgiving pies

“Traditional pies and sugary drinks can spike blood sugar and contribute to weight gain,” a doctor cautioned. “Choose desserts made with less sugar or natural sweeteners.” (iStock)

When it comes to beverages, Nimoityn recommends avoiding or limiting alcohol because of its direct effects and additional calories, as well as apple cider, which contains a significant amount of sugar. 

Sugary desserts are another culprit to avoid. 

“Traditional pies and sugary drinks can spike blood sugar and contribute to weight gain,” Setareh cautioned. “Choose desserts made with less sugar or natural sweeteners.”

Heart-healthy foods

For those with a heart condition, Setareh recommends choosing lean proteins.

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“Turkey (without the skin) is an excellent source of lean protein,” he said. “Avoid deep-fried preparations.”

THIS THANKSGIVING, NEARLY 35% OF AMERICANS SURVEYED ARE TURNED OFF BY TURKEY

When choosing sides, the doctor recommends fiber-rich options.

“Focus on vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans and sweet potatoes (baked or mashed without added sugar),” he said. “Whole-grain stuffing is also a better choice.”

Green beans

For a flavorful, nutritious side, a doctor recommends roast green beans, asparagus or carrots with olive oil and herbs. (iStock)

For heart-healthy fats, Setareh suggests incorporating ingredients like walnuts, almonds and olive oil into recipes. 

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“These provide omega-3 fatty acids and support heart health,” he said.

FOOD RECALLS AHEAD OF THANKSGIVING: 3 YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT

For dessert, fresh fruit salads or baked apples with cinnamon are heart-healthier alternatives to traditional pies.

“Taking larger portions of the healthier foods will result in having smaller portions of the foods that are higher in fat, carbohydrates and sodium,” added Nimoityn.

6 healthy twists on traditional faves

Rozanski believes people with heart conditions can still enjoy Thanksgiving favorites by giving them a heart-healthy twist. 

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Turkey roasting

“Dark turkey meat from the thigh and leg contains significantly more fat than white meat, and ham contains significantly more sodium than turkey,” an expert said. (iStock)

Below are some of his tips.

Turkey: Use whole grains, fresh vegetables and low-sodium broth for a healthier stuffing — and go easy on the gravy, he advised.

Non-starchy vegetables: For a flavorful, nutritious side, Rozanski recommends roast green beans, asparagus or carrots with olive oil and herbs. “Classics like sweet potatoes with marshmallows and brown sugar, buttery mashed potatoes, creamy green bean casserole, and glazed carrots often come with loads of added fats and sugars,” he cautioned.

Salad: “A fresh, leafy green salad with nuts, seeds and a light vinaigrette adds a vibrant, healthy option to your table,” he said.

Mashed Potatoes: Swap traditional mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower as a lighter alternative, Rozanski suggested.

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Dinner Rolls: The doctor recommends choosing whole-grain rolls over refined ones.

Desserts: “Enjoy pie in moderation or try healthier treats like fresh fruit, dark chocolate or air-popped popcorn with light seasoning,” Rozanski suggested.

   

6 more heart-healthy tips

The doctors shared some additional Thanksgiving health tips for those who have heart conditions.

1. Cut out the “high-ticket” items

Nimoityn recommends avoiding some of what he calls the “high-ticket” items that are often added at the table, such as butter, salt and sauces.

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“This can markedly decrease the amount of these components in your meal,” he said.

heart shaped bowl with fruits and vegetables

Patients with heart conditions should consult with their doctors for specific dietary guidance. (iStock)

2. Start small

“Serve modest portions for your first plate,” Rozanski advised. 

“Long meals often encourage seconds, so keeping your initial serving manageable is key.”

3. Eat mindfully

“Eating slowly and taking a break to enjoy the company of family and friends before rushing to fill a second plate can help to prevent overeating,” Nimoityn suggested.

“Give your body 10 to 15 minutes to recognize fullness before refilling your plate.”

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Rozanski echoed that advice, encouraging people to “savor every bite.”

“Put your fork down between bites, chew thoroughly and focus on the flavors to help prevent overeating,” he recommended.

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Before going for seconds, Rozanski said it’s best to pause.

“Give your body 10 to 15 minutes to recognize fullness before refilling your plate,” he advised.

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Older couple walking

Experts recommend taking a brief walk after eating the Thanksgiving meal. (iStock)

4. Walk it off

Experts recommend taking a brief walk after eating the Thanksgiving meal.

“A post-meal walk can aid digestion, lower blood sugar and support heart health,” said Setareh.

5. Adhere to medications

“Ensure that you take all your prescribed medications as usual and avoid foods or beverages that may interact with them, such as excessive alcohol,” Setareh advised.

6. Make nutrition a habit

“Having a heart-healthy diet throughout the year — combined with comprehensive screening by a physician for future cardiovascular risk, including evaluation of lipid and vascular inflammatory markers — may help to prevent adverse cardiac events in the future,” Nimoityn said.

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Patients with heart conditions should consult with their doctors for specific dietary guidance, he added.

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HIV-positive transplants now permitted for livers and kidneys

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HIV-positive transplants now permitted for livers and kidneys

People with HIV are now permitted to donate kidneys or livers to recipients who are also HIV-positive, health officials announced on Tuesday.

The new rule — part of the HIV Organ Policy Equity (HOPE) Act — is intended to shorten wait times for transplants, as reported by the AP. It went into effect on Wednesday, Nov. 27.

“This rule removes unnecessary barriers to kidney and liver transplants, expanding the organ donor pool and improving outcomes for transplant recipients with HIV,” said U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra in a statement, per the AP.

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Prior to this change, HIV-positive organs were only allowed as part of research studies, which the government began allowing in 2013.

People with HIV are now permitted to donate kidneys or livers to recipients who are also HIV-positive, health officials announced on Tuesday. (iStock)

The decision comes on the heels of a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which found that recipients of organs from HIV-positive donors had “similar high rates of overall survival and low rates of organ rejection” over a four-year period, the AP reported.

A total of 500 kidney and liver transplants from HIV-positive donors have been performed in the U.S. as part of research studies.

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“Research shows that kidney and liver transplants between donors and recipients with HIV can be performed safely and effectively,” Assistant Secretary for Health Admiral Rachel L. Levine, M.D., added in the HHS’ announcement. 

“Research shows that kidney and liver transplants between donors and recipients with HIV can be performed safely and effectively.”

“This policy change reflects our commitment to following the evidence and updating our approaches as we learn more. By removing research requirements where they are no longer needed, we can help more people with HIV access life-saving transplants.”

NYU Langone Health

 “It increases the supply at a time when the demand is so great,” said Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News. Siegel practices at NYU Langone Health, which performed 576 organ transplants in 2023. (Noam Galai/Getty Images)

Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst for Fox News, practices at NYU Langone Health, which performed 576 organ transplants in 2023.

“I don’t have a problem with HIV organs being used, because we have people dying on waiting lists here,” Siegel told Fox News Digital. “It increases the supply at a time when the demand is so great.”

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“HIV is now a chronic disease, and what matters is viral load — and we can get that viral load to zero,” he went on.

      

“Giving HIV positive organs to HIV positive recipients makes total sense. There’s no additional risk there.”

Liver

The wait for a liver transplant can be up to five years, per the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network. (iStock)

Most people in the U.S. who are on the national kidney transplant waiting list will wait three to five years, according to the American Kidney Fund.

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The wait for a liver transplant can be up to five years, per the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network.

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The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is also seeking public comment on taking steps toward allowing heart, lung and pancreas transplants from HIV-positive donors, the HHS reported.

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Thanksgiving health checklist: 9 things you should do, according to experts

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Thanksgiving health checklist: 9 things you should do, according to experts

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The focus of Thanksgiving may seem pretty simple — cooking, eating and giving thanks — but the specific choices made throughout the day can have an impact on your overall health.

From choice of food to stress levels, there are many aspects of the holiday that can affect physical and mental well-being.

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Several wellness experts offered their top tips for navigating Thanksgiving in the healthiest possible way.

BEST TIME FOR THANKSGIVING DINNER: NUTRITIONISTS GIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROPER DIGESTION

1. Start the day with gratitude

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on the good in your life, according to Amy Morin, a Florida-based psychotherapist and author of “13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do.” 

She suggests starting the day by listing three things you’re grateful for — “whether it’s the support of loved ones, good health, or even a small joy like your favorite coffee.”

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on the good in your life, a psychotherapist said. (iStock)

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“Taking a moment to think about what you’re truly grateful for in a quiet moment can set a positive tone for the day,” Morin told Fox News Digital. 

“It can also increase your happiness, improve your relationships and give you a boost in mental strength that you’ll likely need during the day.”

2. Don’t skip breakfast

It might seem wise to forgo the meal leading up to Thanksgiving, with the idea of “making room” for the main food event, but experts say that’s not a good idea.

“When you skip breakfast or lunch, you tend to be ravenous by the time you do eat, and that sets you up for overeating as you overindulge,” Shelley Balls, a registered dietitian nutritionist at Consumer Health Digest based in Wyoming, told Fox News Digital.

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“This is often accompanied by a sluggish, painful and miserable feeling afterward, as you tend to eat faster without listening to your fullness cues.”

Instead, she recommends eating a balanced breakfast so you feel more satisfied throughout the day. 

“When Thanksgiving dinner rolls around, you’ll have more control of what and how much you choose to eat.”

3. Choose foods wisely

Among the many options on the Thanksgiving table, some choices are better than others.

“Have a little bit of everything (because that’s tradition), but tread lightly around the charcuterie board — and when you go for seconds, cut down on the butter, cream and fats,” advised Dr. Michael Schopis, a New York gastroenterologist.

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Man with stomach pain

“Some patients have trouble digesting certain carbohydrates, which can lead to excessive bloating and gas, causing pain related to functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome,” a doctor cautioned. (iStock)

It’s best to avoid pre-processed foods, foods high in nitrates (cured meats), simple carbohydrates and trans fats, the doctor told Fox News Digital. 

“Some patients have trouble digesting certain carbohydrates, which can lead to excessive bloating and gas, causing pain related to functional disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome,” he cautioned.

“Taking a moment to think about what you’re truly grateful for can set a positive tone for the day.”

“Nitrates in high amounts have been known to increase the risk of developing polyps and certain GI cancers,” Schopis added.

Dr. Jaclyn Albin, director of culinary medicine at UT Southwestern in Dallas, Texas, recommends starting with a smaller helping and going back for more if you’re still hungry. 

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Thanksgiving turkey

It’s best to avoid pre-processed foods, foods high in nitrates (cured meats), simple carbohydrates and trans fats, a doctor told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“Plan to fill half the plate with fruits and veggies and create a balance between proteins, fruits, fiber and sweets,” she suggested to Fox News Digital. 

“Also, don’t be afraid to add variety. Savoring the different colors, flavors and textures will enhance the meal.”

4. Practice mindful eating

“Chew thoroughly, savor the flavors, notice the food’s appearance and aroma and engage in conversation with family and friends to slow down,” Jennifer Wilcox, a Fay dietitian based in Chicago, told Fox News Digital.

Thanksgiving dinner

“Choose to speak about things you have in common and reminisce over good memories,” an expert recommended. (iStock)

“A slower pace of eating will help improve digestion and help you recognize comfortable fullness.”

Another reason to slow down is that the faster you eat (and the less you chew), the more stomach acids have to work to break down foods, which leads to gas, bloating and reflux, Schopis added.

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5. Drink water with dinner

This tip comes from Christine Byrne, a registered dietitian and the owner of Ruby Oak Nutrition in Raleigh, North Carolina.

GIVING THANKS CAN MAKE YOU HAPPIER AND HEALTHIER, EXPERTS SAY

“Keeping alcohol to a minimum will help you feel much better while you eat and afterward,” she told Fox News Digital. 

“Because alcohol is a toxin, your body (particularly your liver) prioritizes breaking it down and getting it out of your system,” she went on. “That means digesting other food gets put on hold while the alcohol is processed.”

Pouring water

“If you can, stick to water while you eat, and alternate boozy beverages with non-alcoholic ones,” a nutritionist recommended. (iStock)

As a result, you could feel uncomfortable for hours after the meal, Byrne said.

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“If you can, stick to water while you eat, and alternate boozy beverages with non-alcoholic ones.”

6. Set boundaries

The holidays can be challenging when it comes to family relationships, as differences in lifestyle, opinions and values can cause rifts that are challenging to navigate, according to Jillian Amodio, a licensed therapist and founder of Moms for Mental Health in Maryland.

“When seeing family this holiday season, set boundaries for yourself,” Amodio advised. 

“Be honest with yourself and make the decision that will benefit your mental health.”

“Who can you be around, and who will be too difficult to spend time with? Be honest with yourself and make the decision that will benefit your mental health.”

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It’s best to avoid engaging in topics of conversation that could become inflammatory, she said. 

      

“Choose to speak about things you have in common and reminisce over good memories,” Amodio recommended.

Some other ideas include bringing old photo albums, playing board games and taking breaks throughout the day by stepping into another room as needed.

7. Take guilt off the menu

“Remember that Thanksgiving is just one day and guilt is not a food group,” said Elizabeth Harris, a registered dietitian in Maryland.

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“Consider how you want to feel after your holiday meal and do your best to walk your choices backwards from there.”

People having Thanksgiving dinner

“Consider how you want to feel after your holiday meal and do your best to walk your choices backwards from there,” an expert advised. (iStock)

And if you miss the mark, it’s not the end of the world, she noted. 

“You get another chance at your very next meal to practice making feel-good choices that better support your needs.”

8. Make time to relax

“Amid the cooking, hosting and socializing, carve out small moments to recharge,” suggested Morin.

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When things feel overwhelming throughout the busy day, the psychotherapist suggests taking five minutes to breathe deeply, meditate or just enjoy a quiet moment with your thoughts.

“These little pockets of relaxation can give you the mental strength you need to make it through the day,” she told Fox News Digital.

9. Walk it off

Experts agree that it’s important to take a walk after the Thanksgiving meal, even if it’s short.

Family walking

Post-meal movement also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, especially after consuming calorie-dense foods. (iStock)

“Exercise and physical activity increases the body’s metabolic rate, helping your body process richer foods more effectively,” noted Melissa Burdi, dean and vice president of the Purdue Global School of Nursing and a cardiac nurse in Illinois.

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“It also stimulates the digestive tract, preventing bloating or discomfort from heavy meals.”

Post-meal movement also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, especially after consuming calorie-dense foods, Burdi added.

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