The humble cupcake has recently seen a massive resurgence in popularity. The new trend for 'cupcakeries' was more than likely inspired by Magnolia Bakery in the cult TV show Sex and the City in which characters Carrie and Miranda are to be seen regularly devouring the cakes. The craze has spread rapidly with an ever increasing range of mouthwatering options on offer such as Madagascan vanilla, pina colada, Red Velvet (yes, red cupcakes) and even coca cola cupcakes. Cupcakes are chic.
Cupcakes remind people of their childhood. They signify safety and security yet they have a strong association with glamour. Last year the little cakes again hit the headlines when supermodel Heidi Klum bestowed a year's supply of cupcakes on Victoria Beckham as a birthday gift. "How can she stay so skinny whilst eating those?" we all cried. This begs the inevitable question – is it possible for us to successfully maintain a weight loss programme and indulge in such desirable treats?
The answer is a resounding 'yes'. In fact, you really ought to be including such rewards in your diet. If you're trying to lose weight and never have a treat you will eventually feel deprived. Guaranteed to be heading for an eventual meltdown. A binge. Overeating on the very things you'd sworn to stop eating.
Remember that all calories are created equal. In other words 100 calories derived from a banana is no different from the 100 calories contained in a piece of chocolate brownie. It will just be a small piece of brownie. That's the trade off involved in incorporating highly calorific treats into your eating schedule. Have them by all means, but in small amounts.
Everyone has temptations and favourite treats. You will be less likely to struggle with your eating plans if you grant yourself small rewards. If you have a lot of weight to lose it could be a long road ahead until you attain your goal weight. A special treat will help you stay motivated and focused. So if chocolate is your thing, make sure you regularly indulge just a little.
And don't forget about other types of rewards. How about trying some of these: book a massage, manicure or pedicure. Go to the cinema, get a new hairstyle or buy new clothes. Try a new sport. Buy a CD or DVD.
I know of one person who bought a diary to use as a 'reward' book prior to embarking on a new drive towards health and fitness. He simply put a couple of hours aside at the beginning of his proposed programme, thought about the various rewards he knew he would enjoy and entered them in his diary at time periods of every few weeks. For example, he chose to celebrate his progress after six months with a scuba diving course. He admitted that sometimes during the inevitable wobbles in motivation, it was the diary that saved him. Simply reading through all the great things to come was enough to reignite the fire of desire.
Post a Comment