Halloween is a fun time to enjoy sweet treats, dressing up, holiday parties and fun with the kiddos.
There is much excitement with all of the decorations, spooky fun and festivals. Yet, as soon as Halloween comes and goes, we start to hear the words sugar and holidays. Clients and friends are already feeling the affects of the Halloween fun and they’re already thinking about what’s ahead with the upcoming holiday season.
There are ways to enjoy the holiday season without the guilt, constant crashes, weight gain and delayed resolutions. Below are some of my top tips that may help you enjoy the holidays without the hard.
Tips for Kicking Sugar Cravings
Consider Your Caffein Intake.
Caffeine is often consumed during the busy holiday season when many are feeling tired and exhausted. Though there are some health benefits to coffee, it can also dehydrate the body, increase blood sugar swings and may cause sugar cravings.
Stay Hydrated.
Speaking of hydration… There are times that we are hungry or crave sugar and in fact, we’re dehydrated. Try to stay hydrated throughout the day and if you feel added cravings coming about, drink some water and wait a few minutes. Not a fan of plain water? Try infusing it with lemons, limes, berries or cucumbers.
“Crowd Out” Sweet Cravings with Naturally Sweet Fruits and Veggies.
Consuming sweet flavored fruits and veggies can help satisfy the sweet tooth you may be craving. Here is one of my favorite sweet veggies. Delicious, healthy and tastes like sweet healthy candy. Healthy Honey Glazed Carrots
Avoid Foods Consisting of Added Sugars, Chemicals and Artificial Sweeteners.
When sweetening dishes, swap out the above items for healthier options such as local raw honey, pure maple syrup, dried fruits (dates are my favorite) and stevia.
Stay Active and Keep Your Booty Moving.
Movement and activity helps to balance blood sugar levels, reduces stress, boosts energy and increases happiness. When cravings hit, grab a workout with a friend, walk your dog, ride your bike, practice yoga or light stretching. Switch it up and do more of what you enjoy.
Make Time for Rest and Relaxation.
When the body is exhausted, lacking sleep or stressed, it will crave the quickest form of energy available. That form is often times sugar. Rest and relaxation is so important for the body and mind.
Consider the Amount of Animal Meat You’re Consuming.
When looking at Traditional Chinese Medicine and yin-yang principles of eating, too much or too little animal food can create imbalances in the body. Slowing down while eating, being mindful and discovering the foods right for your body can help create balance of your own bio-individuality.
Eliminate Low-Fat and Fat Free Foods.
When our foods shifted towards low fat and fat free, there was a spike in sales of these products. Many thought these foods would help them lose weight and live healthier lifestyles. In actuality, these foods contain high quantities of sugar to compensate for their lack of flavor and fat. These foods will take the body on a rollercoaster of ups and downs.
Have Fun with Spices.
Spices and natural sweeteners (above) will naturally sweeten your foods. Try experimenting with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, coroner and cardamom. During the fall and winter seasons, your body craves foods and spices that are warming.
Consider Your Primary Foods.
Primary foods are different from the nutrition we have on our plate. When we slow down and find joy in non-food ways, we discover a sweetness and zest for life. Cravings are often related to other things going on in our lives.
Consider your current lifestyle and ways that you can make some adjustments to nurture more areas of your life beyond your plate. This is actually quite an empowering process.
When life is sweet, sugar isn’t needed!
Are you already thinking about the sugar crashes, diving into your grandmother’s mashed potatoes, the family pumpkin pie or the variety of cocktails you know will be served at your office party? I know this is a time where we begin to accept and prepare the exhaustion, stress, bloating, weight gain and more.
You don’t have to relive other holidays like those in the past.
There is a way to enjoy the tastes and cheer of the holidays while feeling confident and sexy in your holiday dress.
If you’re looking for a program and community that will help you THRIVE NOT SURVIVE through the holidays, I welcome you to join us!
The next Fall Fuel for You program begins Monday, November 11th. If you have any questions, I welcome you to directly message me here. Contact
Looking for additional tips and recipes this holiday season? Check out my Healthy Holiday Guide