Holiday Eats
Most people think of the beginning of January as the perfect time to begin to make resolutions, but I disagree. The perfect time is actually in late September, maybe early October. Basically anytime before the plethora of candy corn, candy bars, popcorn balls and all other traditional Halloween treats are displayed in the stores. Store managers know that if they put out all the confections in September, people will have bought and consumed them long before October 31.That kind of temptation, as the cold weather and darkened nights loom before us, is difficult to resist. And we don’t.
I have to kick in my resolve to not buy those delicious chocolate, caramel nut candy bars too soon. I have a weakness for anything that has that combination of ingredients. I’m honest with myself. If a bowl of delectable candy is sitting around the house, I will grab one or two at the least off and on throughout the day. If I’m tired or stressed, I may end up ‘accidentally’ eating half the contents of the bowl. Why do that to myself? The best time to buy the treats is October 31st. And don’t buy your favorite either.
Speaking of which, if you are one of the few that don’t overeat at Thanksgiving, congratulations, because most of us will be indulging, no matter what we tell myself. Although, we normally eat relatively healthy around here, all norms are discarded on Thanksgiving Day. Bring on the sugar, butter, flour and all the spices. I want it all, or else the recipes ruined. It’s just for a day right? Not really. Most of us expect to be able to look forward to after Thanksgiving Day leftovers. After all, they are part of tradition. I’m not even going to mention candy canes, apple pie, fruitcake or eggnog. Nope, I’m not going to mention any of those things. Because by now, you’ve gotten the point.
On the other hand, according to the New England Journal of Medicine, the average holiday weight gain is around one pound not five, as was previously believed. If that’s the case, maybe we can eat whatever we want. Bon appetit!
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