Food and eating: holidays skew consumption

Food is everywhere. During the holidays, everyone overeats. And rich, decadent, fattening food is abundant. Gluttony is acceptable and encouraged.

There are many reasons why people gain weight during the holidays: too many to discuss in this one blog post. But one look into the psychology of holiday eating reveals abundance, sharing, and social stigmas.

One English man is eating differently. Instead of drowning in the glutton of abundance, his approach is to appreciate the abundance by living more simply.

Mark Boyle is working on his own consumption awareness. Here is a peak into his story:


So, how can we learn from him and eat more wisely?
First, we need to look at our own personal values. How important is food to me?
Second, look at your social eating behaviors. Do I eat more around family to "please" them? How do I eat in social settings? Do I eat differently at home than in restaurants?
Third, realize that change can take a long time. Patience and perserverance are crucial. Suppose you examine your beliefs and decide to consume less and eat healthier. The new awareness is one step. Then you need a daily plan. What new behaviors will replace the old ones? This process may bring incredible new meaning to your life, but it can take a long time to change old ways. Be good to yourself and don't get discouraged by setbacks.

Perhaps you enjoy holiday food AND you like the idea of reducing consumption. Take just a few moments before each meal, party or social setting to think about the food you might eat. Is it important to eat chips and soda, or other non-holiday junk food? Instead of devouring a whole plate of truffles or mini-tarts, take time to meet the cook and learn how they cook them. (Then, spend time later making an equally-delicious, but healthier, version).

Think. Eat. Learn. Nourish. Thrive.