Pumpkin pie, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, ham -- some of the favorite Thanksgiving staples we all enjoy. Most of them eaten in moderation, do no lasting harm, and in fact offer some excellent health benefits. The key is to avoid the processed packaged goodies that contain high fructose corn syrup such as stuffing mixes and cranberry sauce. Look for healthier versions in your local health food store or, gasp, make them from scratch so you have control over what you're eating. Instead of using canned or bottled gravy, which contains MSG, chicken fat, and other unexpected additives, simply add some flour and warm water to

your turkey drippings and viola you have freshly made gravy!

Pumpkin

Sweet and warming, it supplements the stomach and boosts energy, resolves toxins, reduces inflammation and mixed with honey treats coughs and bronchial asthma. High in potassium, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin, pumpkin reduces your risk of stroke, colon and lung cancer, relieves muscle cramps and improves vision.

Sweet Potatoes

High in fiber and antioxidants, sweet potatoes supplement the stomach and kidneys, provide anti-inflammatory properties, increased energy and treat constipation and diarrhea.

Cinnamon

Acrid and hot, cinnamon warms the stomach and limbs, relieves abdominal pain, diarrhea and low back pain.

Green Beans

Packed with valuable vitamins such as potassium, vitamin K, folate (B vitamin), they help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, lower blood sugar levels associated with diabetes, and help bring down high cholesterol levels.

Ham

Warm and salty, ham is a spleen tonic, stimulates the appetite, decreases nervousness and when boiled with red pepper to make soup, relieves hiccuping and abdominal pain.

Indigestion and Stomachache Remedies

If you tend to overdo at the dinner table, try including in your meal some apples, mango, papaya, grapefruit and cinnamon, or have a warm cup of ginger tea.

Happy holidays!

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