Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Avoiding Junk Food During the Holidays

I don’t think we will ever get away from eating being an emotionally driven rollercoaster. But if we aren’t careful that path can lead to disaster, and I’m not talking about not fitting into last years pants.

 

Heart Disease,

Diabetes,

High Blood Pressure

And Rabies

A vicious case of rabies...

 

All are common diseases caused by our over consumption of junk and lack of activity. Ok, maybe not Rabies, but one could argue that junk food wrappers attract raccoons and therefore increase the risk of Rabies… maybe not?

 

In any case, moderation is the key. However sometimes that’s too broad a statement. Heck who hasn’t heard that, and yet look at the prevalence of the aforementioned diseases.  Junk food needs a new name – trash food, or even love handle maker, maybe that would help.

 

Anyway I think trash food needs to be thought of differently. As something to be enjoyed rarely – like a fine champagne.

 

If you drink three times a day everyday you’re called an alcoholic. If you eat candy, chips, pop, and sweets everyday – you’re called the average north American.  Keep the bulk of your calories coming from healthy food that has a job in your body – rebuilding tissues, supporting energy systems, keeping your brain fueled etc. Take your time to enjoy treats when you do have them (in moderation) and your body will thank you!

 

Even if you ‘only’ had them during the holidays it’s too much:

 

New years Eve

New years Day

Football finals

Valentines Day

Mothers day

Your birthday

Memorial day

Easter

Fathers day

Your friends birthday

4th of July

Your kids birthday

All your kids friends birthdays

Labor Day

Thanksgiving

Halloween

Christmas work party

Friends Christmas party

Spouses work party

Your Christmas party

Christmas day

And repeat…

 

Balance is key, make the best choices of what’s available and learn how to enjoy eating socially and still make it work for your goals! No one wants to be the hungry guy in the corner of the party staring at the cheese wheel.

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