It happens to the best of us. Even if you abstain from sugar year-round, it gets very hard to say “no” to all those cute gingerbread men, and Swedish wedding cookies, and mugs of eggnog. And of course, you end up paying for it big time the next day when you wake up feeling downright awful.

Maybe sugar isn’t your vice, but the odds are good that the spread at this year’s holiday buffet will contain a few ingredients that you wouldn’t usually indulge in on your typical, clean eating diet. And that little splurge can result in less-than-stellar feelings the morning after. Here’s how to feel better no matter how many gingerbread men you throw back!

Apple cider vinegar
Honestly, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one of those versatile ingredients that everyone should have on hand. Raw ACV is a powerful probiotic-rich beverage—perfect for improving digestion and boosting healthy gut bacteria. But vinegar itself is truly a scientific wonder; studies show that sipping on vinegar can effectively lower blood sugar levels within just a few hours. This could have something to do with how vinegar changes the rate of digestion, which is also why it’s an excellent appetite suppressant.

Activated charcoal
Most of us know which foods work well for us, and which we have a slight intolerance or reaction to. (Not sure which foods agree with you and which don’t? Consider working with a Health Coach to figure out what works for you based on your personal nutrition code!) Sometimes the foods that aggravate us contain toxins or processed ingredients that cause inflammation in the body.

If you accidentally eat gluten, or come in contact with another ingredient you might have a reaction to, reach for activated charcoal. Food-grade activated charcoal (usually made from coconut husks!) has tiny pores that act like magnets for toxins floating in the body. As the charcoal makes its way through your system, it attracts the toxins and they are eventually expelled from your body together. 

Greens
Finally, if you’re really feeling horrible the day after a huge feast, you probably need some fiber. Because it acts like a broom for your digestive system, fiber helps our bodies eliminate toxins. One of the best ways to get tons of nutrients (including fiber) quickly is to whip up a veggie-heavy smoothie. Throw in at least 2 cups of greens like spinach, kale, dandelion greens, fennel, and beet tops, and then add half a cup of fruit for a bit of flavor without too much sugar. Whip it up, drink it down, and you’ll be good as new!

Do you have any tried and true techniques for feeling better after holiday indulgences? Share with us in the comments below.