The holidays are an interesting time of year  for food.  There are all types of temptations especially at work.  I never want to become so desperate that I mindlessly consume whatever is present.   I have improved my willpower over the years by providing myself with plenty of options.

At least once yearly, someone gives me a gift basket containing mixed nuts or candied nuts.  I love eating nuts.  They taste great, and they reduce your appetite when consumed in small amounts numbering 10-20 daily.  However, eating more  will cause weight gain that is difficult to lose.  You see nuts are made of good fat, but your body still absorbs it directly as fat.  Nuts are dirty fuel plain and simple.  It will not help  your cause if weight loss is your goal.

Though we have talked about it already, cured meats and cheese are commonly contained in gift baskets, and they are tempting.  Please refer to my prior post on milk and disease for more details.  But both are quintessential dirty fuels.

How can you overcome these temptations?  By supplying yourself with plenty of options.  First, if able, always eat breakfast before going to work or take it with you and eat it soon after you arrive.  I usually eat cereal with almond milk or overnight oatmeal.  Both are very filling.  Second, I bring 1-2 bananas, or a banana and grapes with me.  Though I am not a fiend for sweets, the natural sweetness of fruit satisfies me enough to bolster my willpower.  And I may only do one serving or a small piece of a pastry rather than doing 1 or more of them if I do any at all.  Or course, all bets are off if you drive all day for work or do construction.  I will save that for another post.

I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas!

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