3 Ways to Make Peace with Holiday Sweets -- and Avoid a Sugar Overdose

By Dr. Adam Perlman, M.D. The holiday season comes with a lot of indulgence -- and most of it is pure sugar in disguise (or not so disguised). You don't need anyone to tell you the problems over consumption can cause, but fact is that sweets, treats, and holiday desserts hold emotional significance and a whole lot of real estate, as they're usually part of longstanding family traditions and workplace customs (cookie swap!). The real concern I have is that over time, too much sugar can lead to weight gain, put you at risk for Type 2 diabetes, and impair your immune system. The key to easing the struggle comes in three parts. First, it helps to sort out the thinking behind your holiday eating habits. Second, you need to give yourself concrete tools to help you manage opportunities for overindulgence. Finally, finding ways to support your efforts at balance will go a long way to keeping you in the zone of happy indulgence, instead of stuck in the miserable after effects of eating excess sugary foods. Here are three ways to avoid that holiday sugar overdose. 1. Check in with your mind before you pick up the plate. It's a good bet that a lot of sugar-laced overeating starts with your emotions, which are often on a hair trigger this time of year anyway. Also, let's face it: Eating feels good. When you're anxious or lonely, chronically busy or angry, it can take the edge off. It can soothe and distract you from emotions and thoughts. (Learn how to handle holiday hair triggers....
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news