The Morning After

I think we have all been there—the weekend turns into a steady stream of unscheduled celebrations and the excessive consumption of heavy foods and caloric beverages. It is debauchery in the worst way.

You are certain, although impossible, you have put on 10 unwanted pounds that all find themselves nesting comfortably in the one place you didn’t want them. Your mental and emotional stability have been tested. Self-control and restraint have abandoned you. Two more days pass and you are still in self-destruction mode. Why stop now?

I have been there and have stretch marks and dimples of cellulite to prove it. Luckily, the memories are still there too. I have learned a few methods that can cure the affects of a prolonged attack of gluttony.

Drink as much water as you can stand. Water cleanses, purifies and fills you up and may temporarily curb your appetite while you are regaining some semblance of self-control.

Go for a walk. Get as far away from food as possible. Also, a brisk walk will boost your metabolism.

Get out your food journal and write down the feelings that may have triggered this attack. Be specific so that you can be more emotionally prepared next time. Were you depressed, anxious or bored? Was your mother-in-law in town? Although there are a host of potential “mother-in-law” issues, when mine visits, I know I have to increase my activity because her cooking is irresistible.

If you still do not have a food journal, get one.

Call a friend or family member that you can depend on when you have fallen off the wagon. This should be a person that is positive and listens well, but will never allow you to wallow in self-pity. If you don’t have one of these, I suggest you seek professional help!

And, as Winston Churchill was quoted, “Never, never, never, never—in nothing, great or small, large or petty—never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense.”

Comments or questions, email: suzannemcginnis@me.com.