Here is a definition of the word “DESSERT”: “a course of usually sweet food, fruit, or cheese usually served at the end of a meal”
When we dine at restaurants the usual question posed to us by the wait staff is: “Did anyone save room for dessert?” Alternatively, even without requesting this, some restaurants have their wait staff bring a dessert tray to the table showcasing the various desserts the place offers.
At buffer restaurants such as Golden Corral there is an entire section devoted to desserts and those desserts are included as part of the global price for the meal.
Here is a question we all need to ask ourselves: At the end of a meal, do we really feel any true hunger that would prompt us to want to have a dessert? Our brains tell us that we would like to have a dessert because we know the enjoyment of that sweet taste. However, there is little-no chance that we are responding to hunger signals after consuming a full meal.
During a long-term weight control journey we all must be cognizant of these situations involving desserts. Perhaps hours after a meal there is some element of hunger but immediately after a meal it is highly doubtful that our quest for a dessert is based on hunger.
My suggestion: Do NOT engage in desserts immediately after a meal, especially at restaurants. If you do feel the need to consume something sweet allow hours to pass after the meal. By then, the intellectual part of the brain may kick in and compel you to forego eating something sweet as you are on a mission to become healthier and happier via successful weight control. And another suggestion: Stay away from “All You Can Eat” buffets that include a dessert bar. The temptation to visit that dessert area for several trips combined with knowing we are not paying extra for this may overwhelm that intellectual part of the brain telling us “NO”.
One more thing: Do NOY buy your favorite desserts at the supermarkets to be stored in your freezer or pantry. If they are not there you cannot eat them.
And how could I not end this entry with the old Archie’s song, “Sugar Sugar”?
