Photo: Viktor Hanacek
Resist: to prevent yourself from doing something that you want to do
Temptation: a
strong urge or desire to have or do something
Merry
Christmas and pass the cookies, and fudge, and pie, and chocolate covered
pretzels, and…and…and!
It's a
difficult time of year to maintain healthy eating. So many parties, so much unhealthy - yet delicious - food! What's a girl to do?
It's not uncommon to eat more than you should or to eat the wrong
kinds of food during the Christmas season. But if you do, so what? It's not
the end of the world. Just pick up from right now and carry on.
Have A Plan
You know what food will cause you to overindulge. Know
ahead of time what you will and will not allow yourself to eat.
Daniel 1: 8
Daniel made up his mind not to defile himself with the king's choice
food.
He had decided ahead of time, before the food was set before him, what
his diet was going to be. He asked for vegetables and water.
I'm not saying
you should only have vegetables and water in December (unless God tells you
to), but know in advance what your plan is and stick to it.
Drink Water
Many times
when we're hungry or have cravings it's because we don't drink enough
water. Be sure to stay hydrated. Recommendation is half of your body weight in
ounces every day. If that seems unrealistic, at least shoot for 48 ounces per
day. The more you drink, the more you'll crave and the easier it will be to reach your
goal.
Know Your Triggers
Do you have
friends or family who stress you out? Remember that
you have nothing to prove to anybody.
Eleanor
Roosevelt once said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your
consent."
Walk away from
the offender, take a couple of deep breaths and reach for a carrot stick. If necessary, find a quiet place to be alone for a few minutes to regroup.
Say Yes
You know
Grandma's molasses cookies are going to be in abundance. Don't deprive
yourself. They're only around once a year, so help yourself. But remember your
plan; take only one, or even two, and eat it slowly.
Portion Control
Remember to
eyeball your portions. A palm-size of meat, 1/2 cup of pasta, one handful of
potato chips. Don't overload your plate and don't go back for seconds! Portion
control the first time around is all your body needs. Unless you're loading up
on vegetables, then eat all you want! (Just watch the dips and dressings
portions. I know, I'm such a bore!)
Chew Slow
Whether it's
sweets, garlic bread, lasgagne, Grandma's molasses cookies or whatever the temptation - chew slow. Notice
the taste. Notice the texture. Small bites and slow chewing help you savor the
Christmas treats and you'll enjoy them more than if you take big bites and chew
fast.
Remember Your Goals
Think about the goals you have set for yourself. It's OK to indulge a little, but don't sabotage your plan and what you've accomplished so far. I don't want to see you overwhelmed with frustration if you go too far off the deep end! Think about your planned end result.
Remember Your Goals
Think about the goals you have set for yourself. It's OK to indulge a little, but don't sabotage your plan and what you've accomplished so far. I don't want to see you overwhelmed with frustration if you go too far off the deep end! Think about your planned end result.
Pray
Pray before
you attend the party or gathering. Ask Jesus to help you overcome the
temptations that present themselves.
Don't feel guilty. In the overall
scheme of life a little overindulgence at Christmastime isn't going to hurt
you. Just be mindful of what you are putting into your body and make wise
choices. Otherwise, you will have to purchase a gym membership in January! And really, who wants that?!
I Corinthians 10: 13 (MSG)
No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond
the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that
God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit;
he'll always be there to help you come through it.
What ways have
you discovered to resist temptation? I'd love to read your comments.
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