An office environment makes eating healthy a challenge on a good day, and all but impossible during this time of the year when holiday treats start showing up at work on an almost daily basis. So how to resist when you hear them calling your name from the break room? Here are a few suggestions, but please, feel free to share your own strategies with us in the comments.
- Location, location, location. If you can, move the treats as far away from your office, desk, and other areas you spend a lot of time in (i.e. the copy room). Out of sight, out of mind?
- Bring your own treats to share, but make them healthy. Put a tray of veggies and fruit next to the muffin basket and brownie tray, and when you feel the urge to grab something go ahead and let yourself have a carrot or two. It will satisfy your immediate need to chew on something, and if necessary, you can always make a deal with yourself to have one of the naughty treats later.
- Eat healthy, balanced meals for breakfast and lunch. If you’re hungry you’ll be more likely to break down and over-snack.
- Indulge as late in the day as possible. If you know you’re not going to be able to resist one of Mary Sue’s caramel brownie delights, try to hold off until the day is almost over. Not only will you feel good about yourself for resisting (and getting the reward at the end), but the anticipation might help curb other mindless snacking and you won’t have all day to start rationalizing about having a second serving.
- Sip something warm. A hot drink can help satisfy comfort cravings and leave you feeling fuller. Calorie-free herbal tea is an ideal option and comes in holiday flavors like sugar cookie and gingerbread, but slightly sweetened coffee or even a small cup of hot chocolate could be a less damaging option than a big slice of holiday cake.
(Photo courtesy of Dano on Flickr)
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