Are you so focused on the excess calories you might consume on turkey day that you’re ignoring the health benefits of this holiday season? That’s right—Thanksgiving has a healthy side, too!
Here are a few healthy things we love about Thanksgiving that may surprise you:
Family gatherings promote a feeling of connectedness
When families gather for a meal and chat about their day, experiences, or basically anything going on in life, they are experiencing so much more than just a conversation. Psychologists say they are showing that they care about each other, which helps family members feel a greater sense of well-being, confidence, and resilience in life. With the craziness of life, I know I appreciate the moments we can slow down, talk, and spend some family time together.
The food, of course!
There’s more to Thanksgiving than just the fattening gravy boat. The star of the show, turkey, is high in protein and low in fat to help maintain steady blood sugar levels. Sweet potatoes are loaded with the powerhouse vitamin A to boost immunity, bone health and eyesight, while squash offers plenty of potassium to help reduce blood pressure and heart disease risk. Cranberries are crammed with protective antioxidants, and the list goes on…there are countless health benefits at that festive table, as long as you enjoy them in moderation.
Gratitude is a cure-all.
We all know that Thanksgiving is about giving thanks over a warm family meal once a year, but we’d all be wiser to adopt an “attitude of gratitude” every day. A number of studies have established a strong link between gratitude and a wide range of health benefits, including better sleep, boosted energy, stronger immunity, lower blood pressure, and decreased pain, as well as reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.
From all of us at AVIE! Medspa, we wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving season! To learn about our selection of aesthetic and wellness treatments, call 703.870.3844 or request your personal consultation today.
—Kim