As you busily prepare for your family’s Thanksgiving feast this week, don’t forget to take time out to care for yourself. We often get so caught up in the holidays and all the shopping, meals, parties and obligations that we neglect our health. With all the rushing around, exhaustion will kick in and you’ll start to feel sluggish…and where does that show up first? Your skin! Your skin is a reflection of what’s going on inside, and if you aren’t taking care of yourself – eating poorly, skipping meals, not getting enough sleep or forgetting to wash off makeup after a long day -- your skin will show it.
Even during stressful and busy times there are simple things you can do to take care of yourself and your skin. And the best part is, many of those yummy foods you enjoy at Thanksgiving are actually good for you and your skin!
Remember these simple tips this Turkey Day:
Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day. With all social gatherings, it’s easy to over-indulge in alcohol, sweet drinks and too much caffeine, and not drink enough water. If you let yourself get dehydrated, your skin will show it – it’ll be drier and sallow, and any under-eye dark circles will become more noticeable. But this is an easy thing to prevent just by making sure you drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Keep a large refillable water bottle with you at work, out shopping and while preparing meals, and sip and refill throughout the day.
Eat cranberries. Those red berries that make such pretty dishes and desserts this time of year are actually also really good for you and good for your skin. They are not only delicious but they are high in antioxidants, Vitamin C and fiber. Fresh cranberries are better than canned for getting the benefits of all these nutrients. So indulge in cranberry sauce, fresh cranberries and cranberry desserts!
Eat pumpkin. Another popular holiday food that is also extremely healthy. Pumpkin is an all-natural enzyme. Enzymes help break down toxins and aid in digestion. Enjoy that pumpkin pie, just watch portion control and skip the whipped cream!
Eat turkey. What’s Thanksgiving without turkey? Thankfully, it’s high in protein, which is great for your skin, giving it an all over glow. Counteract the sleepy effects of turkey by going for a brisk walk with your family after your big meal, which is also great for your skin and your body!
Remember to moisturize. As the weather turns colder this time of year, it’s important to remember to moisturize your skin in the morning and before bed. And even though it’s tempting after a long, busy day and late holiday party, don’t ever got to bed without removing your makeup, otherwise you might just get a pimple (or two, or three…) for Christmas!
Happy Thanksgiving!