With one holiday under your loosened belt, you’re probably gearing up for more celebrations – and piles of seasonal comfort food. I could write a “feel good” article about cutting a few calories and exercising a few minutes each day, but I’ll be frank and helpful. Here’s the real deal: You abuse food. That’s right, you’re overweight because you eat too much, and you eat too much because it brings immediate pleasure. This pleasure comes at a high price.You’ve heard dishes referred to as “comfort food.” Some restaurants have a section of menu designated as comfort food. But, comfort food is more than just a hearty dish. It’s those extra calories that you eat to feed an emotional need rather than a nutritional need; excessively big portions that leave you stuffed; high-calorie snacks; sugary treats; fried, cheese-smothered appetizers. It’s whatever you indulge in with mindless munching.Most of us tend to gravitate toward a particular comfort food. For many women, it’s chocolate or other sugary treats. For men, it often takes a saltier form. Think of the last time you ate for pleasure rather than nourishment. There are reasons you do it.Habit: Your body loves routine. If you snack while watching television, then you’d probably find it hard to relax without going through that munching motion. The good news is that once you break the cycle your body will quickly adapt to a healthier routine.To change your mood: Does the thought of a cupcake bring a smile to your lips? How about a large pizza to lift your mood? Pay attention to the emotions that trigger you to overeat. You may be surprised how often you use food to feel better.Because everyone’s doing it: Who can resist comfort food when it’s offered among friends? Peer pressure doesn’t just apply to teenagers; it’s another reason to overeat. Remember that true friends will support your decision to refrain. Can you remember how you felt after you filled up on comfort food? If you’re honest, you’ll admit that the stuffed and bloated feeling was downright awful. So why do it? Your eating habits have gotten you into clothes that are a few sizes larger; drained and with less energy; plagued with health concerns and prescriptions; embarrassed and frustrated with your body.Most people don’t realize it, but the battle to overcome your eating habits is decided by a single body part – and it’s not your mouth. It’s your brain. Once you’ve made up your mind, for better or for worse, you can bet your body will obey your decision. You’ve proven it time and time again. Make the decision to give up your unhealthy dependence on comfort food. There is no better time than now.– www.perfectfitwc.comRECIPE OF THE MONTHPumpkin Zucchini MuffinsDon’t let the rich flavor and mouthwatering moistness of these muffins fool you. You’ll have a hard time convincing anyone, but this recipe was modified to include less fat and sugar than the original. This is a great treat to share at holiday parties. Servings: 40 mini muffinsHere’s what you need…3 eggs, lightly beaten1 cup natural honey1 cup canned pumpkin1/2 cup butter, melted7 ounces pear baby food (or applesauce)1 tablespoon vanilla extract3 cups whole wheat flour1 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon baking powder1/2 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg1/2 teaspoon ground cloves1 cup shredded zucchini1/4 cup chopped walnutsPreheat oven to 350 degrees and line a mini muffin pan with paper baking cups, or use non-stick cooking spray. In a mixing bowl combine eggs and honey. Add pumpkin, melted butter, pear baby food and vanilla. In a separate bowl, combine all of the dry ingredients. Gradually add dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture, and mix until well combined. Stir in the zucchini. Pour into muffin tins and sprinkle the tops with chopped walnuts. Bake for 10 to 20 minutes or until you can poke a toothpick in a muffin and it comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.Nutritional Analysis: One mini muffin equals: 92 calories, 3g fat, 15g carbohydrate, 1.5g fiber, and 2g protein.
