|
The
change of the seasons alone is enough to cause some people to overeat,
especially those in cold climates. Combine this with the stress of the
economy, the holidays, and an abundance of
seasonal foods - and the temptation can become very overwhelming for
some.
So how
can you short-circuit that temptation and still enjoy yourself? Here are
five easy, practical and realistic tips to use:
1)
Don’t Starve Yourself
- The number-one rule to avoid holiday overeating is to make sure you eat
enough. This is not the time to start restricting calories to the point
where you’re so hungry. That even the foods you “hate to eat” start to look
good. The key is to eat small meals or snacks frequently throughout the
day.
2)
Buy a New Outfit
- This tip can work for Ladies and Gents! Whether you decide to indulge in
a new blouse, dress or a special shirt and tie, the point is to purchase
something that you are really looking forward to wearing and that you feel
good about. When you feel good about yourself on the outside, it will help
you to respect yourself from the inside and you’ll be less inclined to keep
reaching for the “better than sex” cake.
3)
Get Some Fresh Air
- A simple, quick walk outside will not only give you a quick burst of
energy, it will also take your mind off of food. By the time you come back
inside, you’ll feel refreshed and your food cravings will likely be
diminished. Taking a walk after dinner is especially helpful because moving
around will help your meal to digest and reduce your chance of becoming
sluggish or tired.
4)
Deal With Your Emotions
- Many of your food cravings have nothing to do with physical cravings and
are actually emotionally based. You may associate certain holiday foods
with the comfort of your childhood and be tempted to overeat to try and
regain that sense of comfort.
5)
Remember: Its Just Another Meal
- Focus on being grateful for life itself and you’ll quickly see that
family and friends are at the center. This outlook will take the focus off
of food.
Makeisha Lee is the author of "Why Black People Can't Lose Weight". She is
also the founder of the Black Health Network online at
www.BlackHealth.org
|
