Four ways to avoid food temptations this Christmas
Everywhere you look there are chocolates, mince pies, desserts, and Christmas party food. Knowing why we want these foods so badly helps us avoid them, so we’ve compiled a quick reference guide to lead us not unto temptation…
Stop comfort eating
Christmas can be stressful. So much to do, so little time, so many people to please. And that’s before you deal with any deeper emotions that come to the surface such as grief or loneliness.
When we’re stressed, our brains release a chemical called cortisol, ‘the stress hormone’ which causes tension. Evidence suggests that it’s the fat cells in our bodies that step in and shut down that response. So that double chocolate fudge cake is giving you comfort biologically as well as satisfying the need for a ‘treat’ because you’re so stressed.
But while something fatty and sweet feels like a treat at the time, your body won’t thank you for it. Instead, do some low-intensity exercise such as walking or yoga to reduce cortisol levels, meditate or give yourself that ‘treat’ in the form of a manicure or massage.
Eat more protein
Filling up on foods high in protein at mealtimes will keep you feeling full for longer and give you sustained energy, as opposed to the peaks and troughs of energy you get when you eat sugary foods.
Okay, we know you’re not exactly going to swap that slice of cake for a boiled egg. We’re talking about eating a filling breakfast such as Italian baked eggs or an omelette so stave off those mid-morning sugar cravings, and increasing the portion of lean meats, eggs and fish in your meals to help you eat less dessert or avoid it altogether.
Keep track of your indulgences
Some people find keeping all their chocolate and lolly wrappers in a jar helps them keep in check what they’re eating and avoid mindlessly grabbing handfuls of chocolates every time they walk past that enormous tin someone bought them for Christmas.
You could also keep a food diary over the holidays where you can keep a list of the sugary and fatty treats you’re eating to help you get a sense of how easily they can add up, and to really think about what you’re consuming.
Try alternative sweets
If you still feel that no amount of exercise, protein-rich foods or food tracking will satisfy that sweet temptation, opt for healthier choices.
Dark chocolate with a minimum of 70 per cent cocoa is lower in sugar and is a great source of anti-oxidants. Strawberries, raspberries and blueberries are very good friends with dark chocolate and will help satisfy that sweet tooth without heaping on too many calories.
You could also opt for sweet foods like low-fat yoghurt with fresh fruit and a teaspoon of honey, a handful of dates or sweet herbal teas.