Enjoying Holiday Meals After Gastric Surgery.

Now that you’ve witnessed the revelry of the costumed candy fiends of Halloween, it’s very clear that the major holidays are upon us. Fear not! While many people’s “one cheat day” somehow turns into a several day binge and sloth cycle, you may enjoy all that the holidays offer without having to suffer or overdo it. Who knows? You may be the only person at the table not lapsing into a miserable food coma after dinner! 

Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure that you are able to stay on your dietary track this holiday season:

• Consume a few glasses of water about an hour or so before you arrive at your event. Drinking water will ensure that you are well hydrated and make you feel just that little bit more full. Avoid drinking much water too close to or during mealtime, however, as this may dilute the stomach’s hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for proper digestion.

• Savor your food in small portions, chewing it well and thoroughly enjoying it. Spend the next 20 to 30 minutes connecting with friends, colleagues or family members at the party. Taking downtime like this allows your body’s fullness trigger to catch up with the amount of food you actually eat.  

• Keep food out of your hands! Practice mindful breathing or find something to keep your hands busy with. If you allow yourself to hold a plate or glass for social comfort, you will likely consume more. Bring your knitting supplies, a deck of cards, or some other conversation starter. Who knows? You may inadvertently inspire others to moderate their eating as well.

• If possible, attend your functions with a friend or support group partner that is on a similar diet. Having others around you eat in a similar way can make it much less daunting.

• Make healthy choices, dessert is off limits. Keep disciplined, sugar is no longer your friend and will only push you back a step.

With this tiny bit of wisdom, you’ll surely be able to the holidays without the guilt or discomfort that you may otherwise be plagued with. Enjoy your food, family and friends to the fullest. If you notice the post-feast nap contingence collapsing before your eyes, take a moment of gratitude for your new life, offering a true thanks-giving to all that is now possible for you.