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The holiday season is here and, whether you celebrate Hanukah, Kwanzaa or Christmas, you most likely have been bombarded with all the stresses that come with the season. It’s easy to turn cookies, eggnog, or wine to help make those family gatherings, office parties and gift-giving more tolerable. While the sugar rush may make you feel better in the short-term, these coping mechanisms are not good for your physical or emotional health in the long-term.

Excessive and uncontrollable consumption of food, alcohol or drugs can lead to an addiction which can have devastating effects on the individual and his/her family and friends. Many of us are not addicts, but willingly admit to consuming an extra piece of pie or holiday alcoholic beverage to help ease stresses or cope with an awkward situation. The pie – while delicious – will spike your blood sugar levels causing a “feel good” feelings before those levels crash leaving you irritable and hungry. Holiday alcoholic beverages are often chock-full of added sugar and syrups, and can often have more calories than your meal! They can also dehydrate you which causes headaches and fatigue that can last much longer than the time it takes to consume the drink.

I challenge you this holiday season to be mindful of your food and beverage choices. Be sure to fill up on protein and vegetables before sampling a (small) piece of dessert. And if you want to enjoy a holiday beverage, be sure to limit the quantity and drink plenty of water before and after to avoid dehydration. Try to avoid eating and drinking mindlessly as well – take three deep breaths before consuming food or drink to ensure that you really need what you are about to put into your body.

You can also take this one step further - try a new addiction. I am speaking of that addictive feeling of gratitude that comes with giving.  This is the time of year when some people need an extra coat, a thoughtful gift or a warm meal. These simple things can mean everything to a person or a family in need. Go out of your way to give a little more, even if you are overwhelmed with the holidays, too. In doing so, you'll be pleasantly reminded how addicting it can be!

Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati is the mother of three children and founding medical director of The Cleveland Clinic's LifeStyle 180 program.  She is a regular columnist for ShareWIK.com 

More Dr. Elizabeth Ricanati articles, click here. 

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