Surviving Super Bowl Sunday

Consumers are expected to spend nearly $700 Million on Super Bowl snacks! Yikes!

Since starting my transformation I have faced Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Eve...and now Super Bowl Sunday Snackday.

I love that when you are making positive life changes that each day, each right choice makes you stronger, more focused on your goal and better able to face the challenges that can creep up (you know...like a day devoted to sitting in front of the TV eating!).

What I learned at Thanksgiving was that much of our drive toward food...besides the taste...are our emotions. You see, we normally have Thanksgiving at my mom's, but this past Thanksgiving we went to Cracker Barrell. It was surprisingly easy to say NO to the high-calorie meal because I had no nostalgia associated with that meal. While I did enjoy a piece of homemade pumpkin pie that day, I stuck with egg beaters and dry whole wheat toast. I know, I know, I know....that is super boring....but it felt good to make a smart choice. It felt good to make a choice that didn't negate all my hard work.

So, today, we are at my parents having grilled shish-ka-bob with lean meat and veggies. Sticking to plan!

My tips for surviving days like today:
- Start with a solid breakfast. Don't skip meals to "save up" calories. This will kill your metabolism and likely lead to a binge once you finally eat.
- Stick to lean proteins and filling veggies throughout the day to keep you full and satisfied.
- Drink lots of water! Especially if you decide to splurge for a special event, don't drink your calories. Water is your friend!! Often when we feel hungry, we are actually dehydrated.
- Be a snob! Be choosy about what you eat. When I am going to have a special treat, it better be AMAZING! Don't splurge just to splurge. Be mindful of what you're eating and ENJOY it!
- It is okay to stick to your nutrition plan even on holidays and special days! If we give ourselves the go ahead to eat whatever we want on EVERY holiday, birthday, sporting event, party or special event, then we will soon find ourselves packing on the pounds. Instead celebrate your new self and YOUR accomplishments by making smart choices.

Enjoy the fun, your family and friends, and even the food. Just be wise!!

I am doing this and SO CAN YOU! Make it a Level 10 Day!