Greetings and Happy Advent Season!
I hope you are doing well as we launch into this month of December and holiday gatherings. I’ve been off the grid for a bit – I was practicing my own self-care coaching in recovering from a bug. But I’m back!
Today, let’s talk about something most of us look forward to every holiday season. Goodies!
Everyone is baking, it seems. Cookies, brownies, cakes, pies, you name it.
For me, I look forward to having my own gluten-free mint chocolate brownies (see below for recipe) at Christmas dinner. Every year, each of us contributes a different Christmas cookie/brownie that makes a huge platter of cookies. And we have ice cream with them.
Many of us feel guilty about eating these and worry about gaining weight. Do you worry about gaining weight over the holidays? But still want to enjoy some goodies?
For many years, that was me. I usually felt so stuffed and over-sugared it was hard to move. But over time and after I learned about how to lower my blood sugar and at least pace myself, I decided not to feel guilty any more for having this very special holiday treat.
So I’d like to take this opportunity to absolve you of any guilt or worry you may have about eating a holiday treat. No need to go crazy but do enjoy yourself.
You see, beating yourself up about eating these special treats doesn’t really help. It just makes us what to just say, “Forget it, I’ll start fresh in January.”
Your family probably has traditional goodies they make once a year. I think traditions are great.
Please enjoy them this year.
Here are a few tips for enjoying goodies and managing your weight and blood sugar during the holidays and anytime:
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As much as possible, plan ahead what you are going to eat if you know the menu. Planning will help keep you from overdoing it. Your adult brain will be on duty.
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Eat your protein and vegetables first, then your starchy vegetables and then dessert. It will help avoid blood sugar spikes
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Take a 10 or 15-minute walk after your meal. It will help your mood and digestion, lower your blood sugar and burn calories.
You can certainly decide how and when to get back on track with your healthy eating and desire to reach your ideal weight and lower blood sugar after Christmas.
I’d be happy to chat with you about this whenever you like. You can set up a short call with me here to talk about your 2023 goals.
Here is the recipe for the mint brownies. It’s very simple.
Mint brownies:
Ingredients; Brownie mix and York Peppermint Patties
- Make your favorite brownie recipe (from scratch or box – I use a GF brownie mix)
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When almost done, take them out of the oven and lay individual York patties on top of the brownies.
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Put them back in the oven for a few minutes until the patties start melting.
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Then take them out of the oven and spread the patties until they cover the whole pan.
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Let cool and then cut into squares. Delish!
My friend, I hope you have a wonderful and joyous Christmas holiday!
In light and health,
Jane
Jane Springer is a certified Life, Wellness and Style Coach who assists women in taking care of themselves, in body, mind and spirit. She coaches women who want to lose weight, avoid diabetes, and feel great. She also helps them thrive after divorce. She also helps them to clear their closets of old clothes and outdated attitudes, so they can shine and feel confident.