Happy Thanksgiving & Healthy Holidays!

While its important to be wary of nostalgic over indulgence in the coming weeks, there's some good health benefits associated with classic holiday dishes.  Many of the herbs and spices commonly used in Thanksgiving and Christmas delicacies are strong anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatories and immune system boosters.   Anti-oxidants, led by vitamins C & E,  help in muscle recovery post exercise.  Vitamin C helps ward off colds and is helpful in maintaining joint health.  Vitamin E boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation and protects cells against free radical damage. So go long with the herbs and spices for healthier holiday feasts!

Let's start with the turkey & stuffing:

Rosemary is a top anti-inflammatory, Sage an antioxidant while both enhance memory and concentration. Slide a few sprigs under the turkey skin before you roast & add chopped herbs to your stuffing for an aromatic savory meal.

Onion, garlic and black pepper are anti-inflammatories and add pop to many favorite side dishes.

Even the pies get in on the health action:

Cinnamon is an anti-oxidant that also suppresses hunger so don't hold back in adding it to those apple pies.  Ginger is an anti-inflammatory and can help settle a roiling stomach.  Clove is both an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory not to mention its role in the perfect pumpkin pie! 

So aside from making food smell and taste yummy, herbs and spices can boost our health!

Here's wishing you a spicy holiday season!

To help burn a few of those extra calories off, make  CoreFitnessByJana online workouts part of your holiday tradition!