It’s that time of year again. Back to back holidays squeezed into just a few months each and every year. I too enjoy these holidays just as much as the next person, but from a health standpoint it can be a weight, skin health and overall wellness nightmare!
People often use the excuse”It’s just once a year. It won’t hurt” While this may be true when enjoying holiday food and drinks in moderation. That may not be the case when consumed in high quantities, it can be damaging on a cellular and metabolic level. The high-spikes and low-lows of our blood sugar can take a toll even on our physical and emotional well being.
Here are some helpful tips on how you can control your holiday sugar intake.
First and foremost, remember what the holidays are truly about. We can get a natural high just from the company we keep, the time we share together, the laughter, the joy the holidays bring. We may associate the consumption of over eating and high sugary snacks, drinks or desserts for having a good time, when it is possible to enjoy all in moderation while still having a great time. You know…without the unwanted guilt that may come with stirring off course from your normal routine and usual eating habits.
Studies have shown there is a euphoric feeling that comes over us when we consume these taste good comfort treats and drinks. No tricks about it! Our minds are just releasing the hormones brought on by what we consume.
Secondly, be in control. Remember you are in control. Never look at this approach as deprivation, rather moderation. We are in charge of how much we consume and when. Account for your caloric intake for the day. If you know you will be attending a holiday party in the evening then plan your drinks and meals during the hours leading up to the party, have a light meal every so many hours to keep up with your caloric and nutrient needs without starving yourself, but keeping room for those ever so decadent macros you will be consuming that evening. (Carbohydrate, fat, protein found in the total calories per serving) Remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. One leading cause of overeating is to confuse dehydration with hunger.
Thirdly, ration the holiday candy. If you want to have a piece from time to time, don’t be a miser, ration it out amongst family members, friends or co-workers and be sure to keep some for yourself as well!( This isn’t about deprivation, unless there is a medical reason why you shouldn’t consume certain foods or sugar.) Don’t snack on candy mindlessly either. Be “in the moment” while enjoying the candy, put down the smartphone, turn off the TV and focus on that piece of candy. You are most likely to feel satisfied and less likely to reach for more when you live in the moment.
Lastly, have fun! If you don’t make it a big deal, it won’t be. With anything it is a matter of how we look at the situation. If you stick with enjoying tasty treats in moderation great and if not and you go a little overboard here or there, don’t waste time kicking yourself in the rear! You are more likely to be successful but having a positive outlook. Just start each day with a fresh clean slate and plan on how you want the day to unravel. That is why it is called a “habit”: regular repeated behavior.
As long as you make it a point to want to make smart choices each and every day, eventually it will become second nature to you, the trick is to keep going, keep pressing forward. Consistency is key.
If you already live a healthy lifestyle you are unlikely to find difficulty in getting back to your routine once the holidays are over. Remember however it is never too late or meaningless to continue with your exercise routine or begin a moderate exercise regimen. Even a brisk walk a few days in the week during the holidays will help with holiday stress among a long list of other great benefits, including burning those extra calories you may have consumed by not turning down Aunt Evelyn’s Pecan Pie… I’m sure this even made your sweet tooth perk up a smile.
Happy Holidays! From Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P. and the Key West Wellness Team
Tag us in your posts; what makes you smile, what exercise routine you may have, what treats have made their way into your life this holiday season, if you are volunteering anywhere, we would love to share these moments with you. Facebook, Instagram @KeyWestWellness
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For more information on overall wellness, please contact: Key West Wellness Center – Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P. 3420 Duck Ave. Key West, FL 33040 305-296-5358 Contact@KeyWestWellnessCenter.com www.KeyWestWellnessCenter.com
