Binged on Sugar this Holiday? Here’s how to Recover!

The holiday season is upon us. The air is crisp with the smell of delicious, sugary treats. Holidays bring our families together, and with that, more often than not, comes the guilt of eating something you may have avoided all year – sugar, carbs, dairy…

Everyone goes through this but these momentary lapses are not the end of the world. I’m here to tell you not to dread the holiday parties and feasts – it won’t ruin all your hard work. But if you have been binging on sugar these holidays and plan to continue doing it for the next week or so, this guide could help you get back on track.

Don’t Skip your Meals

You’ve probably consuming a lot of sugar so your blood sugar is very high. It’s best to avoid sugars. And under no circumstances should you skip a meal. Eating regular meals helps keep sugar levels in check and diminish your need to eat something sweet. Putting a big gap between meals will have you reaching out for the sugary snacks because they offer a quick burst of energy and your body is tired. Eat regular meals, and make those meals heavy on vegetables and good sources of fat, and perhaps some fish.

No Carbs before Noon

Keep your breakfast low in sugar and balanced. Your body has enough glucose as is that needs to be burned so carbohydrates are off the table – no toast, pancakes or waffles, etc. Instead, try using proteins – the good old bacon and eggs is a always a good combo. The fat and protein will keep you fuller and the body will start burning the sugar it has stored up during the last few days.

Exercise is Always Good

Don’t feel guilty or stressed, instead use all this negative energy and go out for a walk, or a run. This will quicken the process of burning that stored glucose in your blood; Pilates, Yoga, Jogging – whatever your preferred light workout is, just do it.

You Need Water

The easiest thing to do of all is to keep your body hydrated, so drink more than you usually do. Chances are, your body is dehydrated – that’s a consequence of sugar and alcohol. Water will get your blood and lymph moving easily, and water will definitely help with those headaches.

Shake off the Guilt

It’s okay. A few cheat days don’t matter. Don’t stress it, and absolutely don’t feel guilty. You can get back on track ever so easily. Think of all the days where you made the healthier choices. Remember, stressing yourself out and feeling guilty is only hurting your body even more. You don’t want that. Focus on getting back to your routine as quickly as possible.

Lahaina Pirri, RNCP, NNCP
la@balanceonehealth.com
www.balanceonehealth.com

Disclaimer: The recommendation varies per individual. If you have specific symptoms or allergies, please reach out to us, so your health plan can be devised accordingly.