You’ll find sweets everywhere you turn this time of the year, from cookie exchanges to gift baskets full of goodies and the traditional treats that define every festive gathering.
I certainly don’t mean to be a sweet spoilsport, but it’s important to learn the effect that hidden sugars found in these sweets and other foods have on your body. As I’ve written about before, your body can only process about two teaspoons of sugar at a time, whether it comes from a cookie or a sneakier source of hidden sugars like mashed potatoes or a homemade roll. Excess sugar beyond those two teaspoons causes a sugar rush, fluctuations in your energy levels and potentially weight gain.
My advice to you is to choose wisely. For sure, there may be some temptations you find hard to resist, but my tips for avoiding hidden holiday sugars should hopefully help keep you on the right track.
Pick your poison. I don’t expect you to turn down every treat that comes your way, but there’s no reason to mindlessly munch on the store-bought Christmas cookies in your office break room when you can save your sugar rush for a bite of a favorite family recipe.
Bring or make low carb desserts. We’ve got over 100 low carb dessert recipes, perfect for any holiday gathering. You’ll find low carb alternatives for favorites like cookies, cakes and pies.
Curb your appetite with low carb snacks. Seek out low carb snacks featuring protein, healthy fats and fiber to keep your blood sugar in check when the cravings strike. Almonds, pistachios, chunks of cheese and cut-up veggies with hummus or ranch all fit the bill, as well as Atkins bars and shakes. You can indulge your sweet tooth with Atkins treats.
Stick to your plan. It’s easy to let your low carb routine fall to the wayside, but don’t let the stress eating or sugar cravings get the best of you. Keep planning your low carb meals, and focus on simple, make-ahead low carb dishes that do double-duty for dinners and lunches.
Forgive yourself. If you overdo it, don’t use it as an excuse to give up completely. This is a lifestyle, not a short-term solution. Your next goal? Focus on your next low carb meal and break a sweat with some exercise to get back on track.