Today I am frantically editing references and finalizing a textbook that I am co-authoring (all in time to watch the Super Bowl). As I look ahead at the party I am going to in a few hours I realize that Super Bowl parties could be a train wreck for people who are consciously trying to watch their weight and pull through 2009 carrying around less weight and healthier than they started this year off.
And, it isn’t really about the food and blowing it for one day. Instead it’s about the change in one’s perception or attitude after they feel like they “failed” for a day. Unless you are a bodybuilder or fitness competitor, blowing it out one day probably won’t hurt you (though a good amount of food in a short period of time can bring on an attack of acute pancreatitis or even a heart attack if you are at risk). However, when this one day becomes two then three and soon a week and so on, that’s when you know you’ve carried out the “one day won’t hurt” attitude too far. On the flip side, some people view their food intake or exercise regimen as all or nothing. Just one slip and they throw in the towel. Let me remind you though that making changes in your physique and your health take some time and should be viewed like a marathon and not a sprint. Those who have the endurance will indeed persevere.
That being said, here are a few tips to keep you feeling good about yourself today:
– Eat beforehand. Never “diet” all day before a party. Even cardboard will look appetizing at that point.
– Fill up first on the healthy stuff – deli turkey, cut up veggies and fruit
– Watch the game. Seriously, who cares about the food when the Super Bowl is on the line (right?)
– Alternate water with your alcoholic beverages (not just a sip, a good 8 oz). If you hate water, try something that is lower in calories (then beer) and tastes good, selzer, Crystal Lite, vitaminwater etc.
– Eat slowly and savor every bite
– Concentrate on portion control when it comes to the heavy foods
– Wait for quite a while before going up for second helpings. The longer you wait the more likely others will have devoured them before you get a chance to dig in.
Lastly, enjoy!