FINDING THE TRUE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

Getting into the holiday spirit, for many, often means getting into the spirits. But pouring yourself a tall cold one to make things merrier might actually make the season far less bright.

According to researchers at the Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, binge drinking increases around the holidays, which is often related to social or financial stress that comes with celebrating at this time of year.

Still, stress and alcohol can create a toxic cocktail for our brains, no matter how much we might think we’re being released from our inhibitions when we imbibe.

“Alcohol [can be] highly addictive,” says Joan Ifland, a processed food addiction expert. And it can have potentially serious consequences that include impairing cognitive skills and our self-control. While that might feel fun in the moment, any feelings of comfort and joy experienced while tippling are fleeting, Ifland cautions. After all, alcohol is a depressant.

Despite thinking we’re more relaxed after a glass of wine or two, drinking may be related to an increase in the stress hormone cortisol. High cortisol levels are associated with everything from weight gain and acne to fatigue, irritability, and high blood pressure.

Be aware

“Step one is awareness,” Ifland says. “‘What am I eating? Oh, I ate that and even though it seemed like it was yummy, I know I had a crash 20 minutes afterward.’”

Keep in mind where you’re being reminded of processed foods, too, she added.

Plan ahead

At this time of year, the holiday gathering, with its lavish edible spread, is often the culprit. Simply saying you won’t indulge may not be enough to spare you from getting sucked into that vortex of stress and indulging, Ifland warns.

“You get [to a party] and after an hour or two, you’re eating [unhealthy foods],” she says. “It’s because cravings and loss of control build up over time.”

Take your own

Instead, take your own snacks—think crudités, healthy proteins, or other foods that are as close to their natural, unprocessed shape and form as possible—and keep it near you. If that’s not possible, avoid standing in a place with a clear view of the hors d’oeuvres table.

HEALTHY FRIENDS, HEALTHY HOLIDAYS

It’s nearly impossible to break bad habits if you’re the only one trying to do so. Spend the season with those who share similar values and goals for holiday cheer. Surrounding yourself with others who celebrate in safe, healthy ways makes it easier to stay on track.

Sometimes that can mean forgoing large gatherings altogether. Call on only one or two friends and go for a walk instead of gathering around food and drink. Not only do you get a more sustainable endorphin rush from the exercise but research also shows that physical activity may actually reduce appetite, and that can curb those problematic cravings that ultimately increase stress.