Feel Whole This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for loved ones to connect while sharing, love, laughs, and a delicious meal. Primary Care Physician, Dr. Lisa Kingsley with AdventHealth Primary Care at Church Ranch shares some words of wisdom to help keep your Thanksgiving holiday safe, healthy and happy this year.

According to the National Safety Council, more than 36,000 people visit their local emergency room nationwide each year on Thanksgiving Day. “With so much preparation going on and multiple chefs in the kitchen, it's easy to get distracted while cooking and cut or burn yourself,” said Dr. Kingsley. “In the event of a minor burn, make sure to remove any clothing, jewelry, or debris and cool the affected area with room temperature or cool water. Avoid ice or ice-cold water as this can worsen the injury. Clean the wound with mild soap and tap water. Tylenol or Advil can be used for additional pain relief.” If you or a loved one needs medical attention on Thanksgiving, the team at AdventHealth Avista’s ER will get you taken care of and back to the festivities as quickly as possible.

“Thanksgiving may be the only time we get to spend with some family and loved ones, so it is understandable to want comfort foods and to eat more of certain foods than we typically do,” said Dr. Kingsley. “Remember to give yourself grace and not feel guilty during mealtime during this holiday. Rome was not built in a day and one day of eating extra turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie is not going to completely derail your healthy nutrition plan. Typically, I recommend eating until you are 80% full so you don't leave the table feeling uncomfortable, however this is not always possible when families spend hours at the dinner table reminiscing and spending quality time together. I always recommend eating more fruits and vegetables, and prioritize whole foods over processed foods.”

Whether you are turkey trotting or cooking the day away, it’s easy to get dehydrated on Thanksgiving. Additionally, if you’re having alcohol or caffeinated beverages, that can make it even harder to hydrate. “Having alcohol alternatives can be helpful to both stay hydrated and avoid alcohol intake,” said Dr. Kingsley. “Hot apple cider, or non-alcoholic sangrias are also great alternatives to alcohol.”

Although the holiday is a happy time for many, for some it can be difficult being around family members who you may not see eye-to-eye with. “Being around family we don't see often should be a happy, relaxing time; however, this is not always the case depending on where the conversation may shift,” said Dr. Kingsley. “Focusing on relaxation techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation can be very beneficial when trying to keep a level head. This time can also be a great way to bond away from the table. Consider starting a new family tradition of doing a turkey trot or walk together as a family after your meal.”

Feelings of stress and anxiety are common during the holiday season so it's important to keep your mental well-being top of mind. Recharge each day through spending some time moving your body through walking or yoga, enjoy a good book, or take a bubble bath. “One method to improve mental health is to think about what we are grateful for,” said Dr. Kingsley. “Try incorporating this into your day-to-day life by journaling or talking with your family about three things you're grateful for every day.”

May you and yours savor this Thanksgiving Day together! If you’re in need of a primary care physician, Dr. Lisa Kingsley is accepting new patients: Lisa Kingsley, DO | Family Medicine | Westminster, CO | AdventHealth

Dr. Kingsley earned her medical degree at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her family medicine residency at HealthONE/Sky Ridge Medical Center. A Colorado native, Dr. Kingsley enjoys hiking, camping, biking and snowboarding with her husband and their poodle. Her hobbies include beekeeping, wildlife photography and traveling the world.