Here it comes, the parties, the sugar-laden presents, and of course the overbooked schedule. Yes, the holiday season is upon us. But for those of you whom don’t wish to face January a few pounds heavier, now is the time to implement strategies that will help you through the busy season. Here are some tips to help you get through the sugar laden holidays.
Plan your indulgences. Do you have a special dinner or event where you know the food is going to be out of this world? This is the time to treat yourself and fully enjoy it. Savor every bite, take time to eat slowly, and stop eating prior to feeling full. If you know there are going to be several courses served, then leave a small amount of food on your plate at the end of each course. When dessert arrives, implement the next tip.
Follow the 3-bite rule. Sweets and the holidays go hand-in-hand, if you are at a formal function and are served dessert, or if it is something you just can’t pass up, take 3 bites. Place your focus on conversation, not food. In other words, put your fork down. Once you’ve had your three bites, you are done. If it helps, you can inconspicuously salt your dessert, to prevent digging back in. This might sound strange, but it works for some!
Don’t let your blood sugar dip. Busy holiday schedules can leave you running around town all day, without any healthy foods in sight. You can only expect that the eggnog latte will be calling your name. Make it a point to not go more than five hours without food. Take the time to eat quick, yet healthy meals that include protein. Protein helps to maintain proper blood sugar levels over time. Most importantly, be sure to carry snacks with you in case your errands turn into an all-day event. Easy-to-carry snacks include: nuts, string cheese, apples, or high quality protein bars like the Paleobar.
Bring a healthy dish to the dinner party. Even if you weren’t asked to bring food to a party, it will only be a welcome addition, and give you something to eat that fits into your régime. Prepare something healthy, yet substantial. This way you can fill up on your dish, without having to eat much of the less healthy choices, if need be.
Take the focus off sugar. This can be a tough one. It seems like the holidays just wouldn’t be the same without tantalizing treats, and you probably grew up with family traditions that centered around such goodies. But change is good; create new traditions that center around creating gifts that are less food-centered, or give your time to someone you love. Utilize healthy sugar alternatives like xylitol, which is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that enters the blood stream very slowly – allowing for the sweet taste without the sugar rush. Brain Power Sours are a candy-like treat sweetened with sugar alcohols, including xylitol, that just might be the ticket to give you some sweet, without the sugar. If you like Starburst® candy, you will love these chewy, healthy, raspberry flavored treats sweetened with xylitol. This natural and beneficial sweetener has a glycemic index of 7 and supports the health of teeth and gums. You can feel good about your kids (or yourself!) eating this treat.
I hope you have found these tips helpful to navigate the holiday food gluttony with ease.
Wishing you and yours a lovely holiday season!
