Thanksgiving is just around the corner! That sweet scent of all those dishes which will soon be on the table will lead to a lot of over-consumption of wonderful foods and our metabolism will suddenly be screaming, “What just happened?!” 

This will be the time to get started (or not stop) getting regular, safe exercise. Here are some Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics tips to get moving or keep moving and to stay healthy during the Thanksgiving celebrations next week.

First, a few notes about Thanksgiving itself – the holiday centered around food:

• Hydration is key: Drinking water throughout the day to stay hydrated will prevent you from mistaking thirst for  hunger. Added water will prevent you from consuming the holiday foods so aggressively.

• Eating slowly: How quickly you eat, really does make a difference. Research suggests, fast eaters consumed around three ounces of food per minute, while their counterparts only ate about two ounces. Chewing more slowly could mean less calories.

• Use the small plate: Research suggests filling the plate with less can help with portion control, while a bigger plate may allow you to consume more than you need.

Second, some tips about exercise around the holiday:

• You won’t burn calories being sedentary around Thanksgiving. Staying mobile during the festivities- walking, standing, cooking, cleaning, housework; all help you stay off the couch.

• Plan a post-meal walk: As soon as you arrive at your Thanksgiving dinner, plan for a post meal walk with family or friends. The more people that join in the walk, the more social and less exercises-focused it will be. A brisk walk will help you burn calories.

• Find a local walk-run event to join: Chattanooga has several “Turkey Trots” and other exercise-centric activities, such as the annual Grateful Gobbler walk at Coolidge Park, among several others. Check online calendars to find something to participate in so you can stay active this holiday!

Third, some thoughts about existing injuries or pain that may keep you on the sidelines this Thanksgiving:

If you are worried your chronic or acute pain may keep you from enjoying this holiday season, now is the time to come in to Chattanooga Non-Surgical Orthopedics for an evaluation and treatment. Dr. Hall regularly sees patients this time of year who have put off getting help for their pain.

Why wait another moment? Call us now for an appointment!

423-499-0003

#nopainthanksgiving