Three Tricks to Get Through the Holidays

December is a month that is notorious for gaining weight. Office parties, cookies at school, tins full of snacks, and large dinner parties lurk around every corner. These are common issues that happen to become an everyday occurrence during the holidays. So how do we pass up the cookies and fudge?

Some people say bring apples and bananas to work, chew on a stalk of celery, and drink lots of water. To this I say, "yeah, right". I lack the self control it takes to walk past the chocolate collection all day long and eat salad only at dinner parties. While this sounds like the best way to avoid over indulging during the holidays, I know that the self discipline I possess will not get me through a month or more of parties and cookies. The other issue that accompanies this attitude is that most of these people eventually give in. When this happens, they overindulge, rather than taking a few small bites. This is because they have not allowed themselves any room for enjoyment.

I have decided that I will allow myself one small treat when I encounter such events. If there is a tray of brownies or cookies, I may take a small bite. This gives my sweet tooth the satisfaction of the yummy holiday season and does not compromise my weight. If I did this more than once a day or every day, of course this would be risky behavior. Moderation is the key in every aspect of life. This does not exclude food. Taking a small bite is a good decision. Filling a plate with cookies, fudge, and other sugary treats is not the best decision to make. This is common sense, but many people leave that at the door every December, and pick it up sometime in mid January.

Bring your common sense everywhere you go. Be sure to include a stick of gum with it. I have found that it is easier to walk past the table of terrible decisions when my mouth is full of gum. Not only does it catch the drool, but it satisfies the need to consume the decadent and aromatic foods. This may sound strange, but it works!

Another useful trick that comes in handy is sugar free candy canes. They come in all flavors and sizes and can be as little as 30 calories a piece. Having this minty candy can bring back the memories of holidays past and fulfill the craving for holiday treats. See this site for more details and to order some sugar free treats.

Getting through the holidays can be a challenge at times. But you do not have to deny yourself and of the small pleasures that come along with this time of year. By taking very small portions of dessert, chewing gum, and choosing sugar free varieties of some holiday favorites, you can glide through this December without packing on the pounds!