clean living// digestion prep to enjoy your holiday feasts
the holiday season is a time that can make healthy disciplines hard and if we are being honest, often undesirable. that hot chocolate topped with creamy whipped cream sounds extra cozy when the air is crisp and the fireplace is crackling. the roasted turkey and the casseroles and the largely cut slices of pumpkin pie taste extra appealing with family wrapped around the table after a spontaneous football game in the backyard. this time of year is truly the greatest in that regard (minus all potential family dynamics and 2020 difficulties of course).
so instead of heavily encouraging the organic red wine and implementing the concern of picking through unhealthy food when you are at a dinner you had no cooking contribution for, i thought i would instead help you prepare your gut for optimal digestion. i dive deep into this topic in my newest release of the clean sweep–my daily guide to clean living–but as the holidays are soon upon us i wanted to share now. i also want to validate that straying off of the structured healthy eating for a day here and there is OKAY. there is no shame there; practice the enjoyment of community and feasting. that attitude of enjoyment in itself aids in ideal processing of food.
for those of you hosting thanksgiving this year, i will soon show you some healthy recipes our family is already preparing that are so delicious–stay tuned! but first, i wanted to provide you with options to delight in the feast no matter what circumstance you fall into this year by preparing your gut and optimizing your digestion.
as i talk about in the clean sweep, my daily guide to clean living, the journey to a healthy gut takes time. healing and working bad bacteria out of your digestive system is a journey. in the program, i outline daily lessons and practices to making the switch, but here i wanted to prepare you with a few practices you can start now in preparation for the holiday season!
one// cut back on or–more preferably–fully eliminate the consumption of processed foods. aim for real, whole foods that still can be easy to whip up or find a healthy conscious restaurant close by that can provide you with great pick up options to store in your fridge.
two// only keep healthy snacks in your house - clean out all of the tempting, nutrient lacking options. If it’s not in your house, the urge to mindlessly snack dissipates.
three// start taking a probiotic daily and support the healthy bacteria in your gut. i love this one.
four// start eating fermented foods as they are rich in beneficial bacteria and enzymes, which will ultimately improve the health of your gut microbiome, your digestive system, and your immune system. tip: add sauerkraut to your meals!
five// take a digestive enzyme for optimal nutrient absorption across all food groups including proteins, fats, carbs, sugars, nuts, grains, and plant fibers. it also helps to decrease bloating and discomfort from food intolerances while simultaneously limiting inflammation. i recommend this one.
six// drink warm filtered lemon water first thing in the morning to encourage healthy digestion by loosening any toxins trapped in your digestive tract. the acid helps to break down food it aids in keeping your hydrated.
seven// have an activated charcoal supplement nearby; toxins can bind to it, ultimately being removed from your body. take when you are experiencing gas, excessive bloating, or food poisoning–it is a lifesaver!
overall, be mindful as you approach such a special season. take care of your body and give it all the love! support your gut and it will thank you over this beautiful holiday season.
xo, lauren
