This week, we are kicking off the holiday season with Thanksgiving, beginning the season of all things eating, drinking, and being merry!
Are you wondering if I'll tell you how many burpees you need to do to counteract that extra slice of pumpkin pie? Or maybe you're part of that family that runs a Turkey Trot 5K?? Or maaaayyybbeeee you participate in a black friday fitness challenge??
Over the years, I have participated in and often lead many a 'Turkey Burn' challenge and/or holiday fund raiser. If this is what you like to do as well, have the best time! 'Tis the season!
WE LIKE TO EAT!!
Let's be honest, though. On Thanksgiving Day, most people enjoy football and food—lots of food, and lots of leftovers. Many of us enjoy foods that we don't normally eat the rest of the year. Consider this blog your permission to eat whatever you like and enjoy yourself and your family without worrying about the scale. That number on the scale will go up, as you are most likely consuming more carbs than normal. Carbs hold water, and an increase in water weight means an increase on the scale. Never fear! Get back on track, and that number will drop back to normal. It's only one day. Hopefully!
Let's look at facts: one day of crazy eating can lead to two days which leads to three. It's easy, we've all done it. The same with the gym (or whatever moves you) in that it's easy to skip one day and it's easier to skip two and on and on. You get the picture.
ENTER LEPTIN!
Once more, Karen is enlightening us with science! Leptin is a hormone that influences your metabolism, satiety, and fat-burning processes. Yes, it's true! When you are in any sort of depletion, be it calorie or carb, your leptin levels dip. You may have heard of the term "re-feed" and it means just that. You can take a meal (or holiday) to re-feed your body, hence, increasing the leptin levels in your body.
This may be a good time to review a few eating tips so you don't feel awful.
Drink water, tea, coffee, or some other calorie free liquid before the meal.
Go for a walk after you eat your meal, before pie.
Volunteer to help with kitchen duty, which usually involves dancing.
Go for the turkey first, veggies, and then carbs.
With each passing year, my appreciation for the amazing people in my life increases! I remain thankful for the chance to collaborate and journey with you towards your fitness objectives. I have made many wonderful friends, many of whom I consider family, and have added to my ever-growing list of blessings.
Seriously, y'all are the best!!
Love and lifting, and eating and laughing,
Karen
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