The holidays are over—you’ve survived the planning, running, baking, cooking, partying, shuffling, shopping, and the dreaded eating what you know you shouldn’t and not sleeping like you know you should! Fortunately, you renewed your commitment to begin the new year with a fresh set of health goals. But, suddenly…the next holiday or party approaches and your body screams with anxiousness for the potential ambush ahead! Before it’s too late, let’s slow down and talk ‘prevention’. This is pretty much one of my favorite conversations because, when put it into action it can really keep you healthy. The Oxford dictionary defines prevention as “the act of stopping something from happening or arising.” So, before the next health ambush triggers another illness, let’s get back on track and plan sensible ways to ride through the new year prepared. After all, planning = prevention.
Ambush tactic #1 – never leave the house hungry. Let’s face it, around every corner is an 800 calorie, sugar laden frappe latte, just waiting to tempt you with a quick pick-me-up drink! Consequence—super high sugar and caffeine rush, in addition to lack of wholesome nutrients vital for your energy needs.
Your plan—prepare a cooler bag with water bottles, a protein drink with Orgain and pre-made bags of protein rich snacks.
Ambush tactic #2 – party palooza strategy. That party or favorite event will undoubtedly contain a table spread to ensnare even the most conscientious health person. Consequence—post party regret from an imbalanced plate of non-nutritious foods.
Your plan—before happily dancing around the desserts, first scope out the table and select some nutritious offerings. Then enjoy small portions of your favorite treats, guilt-free.
Ambush tactic #3 – preload before the attack begins. This is probably the most important step to take since you never really know what day, or even hour, the health ambush will strike. Consequence—without replacing sapped energy reserves, your sluggish body will begin to slow down from high stress and poor quality eating.
Your plan—daily preload your body with nutritious whole foods, in addition to super anti-oxidant blends to give you an extra boost during the ambush.
The bottom line is this, waiting for the ambush to hit will only cost you wasted time and resources, so plan to make prevention one of your goals this year.