Happy Monday UC San Diego! I realized over the weekend that we have yet
to discuss the one thing that goes hand-in-hand with moderation: willpower.
Willpower means having the ability to exercise control over a strong
desire. Take for example the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. It’s no surprise
that my Turkey Day temptations are caused by the bountiful basket of bread at
the end of the buffet line (come on, what Italian doesn’t enjoy a nice warm
roll?!). Although I know I am pleasantly satisfied after having one, I always
seem to experience an intense desire to go back and grab another. This is where
willpower comes in.
First, I certainly know that my mother has purchased enough for the
delicious leftovers we will have the next day.
Then, I allow myself to recognize that I can enjoy another serving at a
later time; this helps me to reconnect with my feelings of being satisfied.
Not sure if this is something you can do? You will never know unless
you try. This suggestion comes from our friend Zach over at Muir College: “If
you feel your pants squeezin’, moderate this holiday season!” His holiday motto
may just be the trick you need to avoid those second helpings! If suddenly you
feel that your sweat pants are calling your name, this is your cue to step away
from the table and grab your sister, aunt, or dog and head out for a nice walk.
Remember, it’s okay to indulge, but moderation is the key. When you let
go of your willpower and allow moderation to turn into TURKEY DOMINATION, your
holiday health is torn off its track. This doesn’t mean you can’t get back on
the right path tomorrow; however, research shows kicking off the holiday with a
downhill spiral only makes it that much harder to get back on your healthy
road.
Start practicing moderation now by popping into the Village Market and
preordering your Thanksgiving Meal Kit or Grocery Bag. It’s a great deal for
those sticking around San Diego this week to allow you to enjoy a Thanksgiving
meal with your campus family. The Thanksgiving Meal kit is only $56 for a meal
that feeds 4 (or more depending on how you practice that moderation!). That’s
$4 less than Whole Foods, and you get a WHOLE lot more for your money! (The Whole
Foods Turkey Kit has only a turkey breast, mashed potatoes & gravy,
cranberry sauce, and green beans for $59.99.)
Suggested Posts to View
http://kimthedietitian.wordpress.com/2013/11/25/willpower-tips-for-finding-more-of-it/
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events featuring the Taste Buds!
