Let’s face it, unless we allow ourselves a treat here and there life would be pretty miserable. Most people associate treats with sweets. Sugar is not a bad thing, though just about every message you hear in the media says otherwise. The bad thing is that because it tastes so good and makes us feel so happy, we can’t stop eating (or drinking) it. The American Heart Association reports that Americans eat about 22 teaspoons of sugar a day (almost 4 times the recommended amount for women). That is the problem. Period. But a little sugar never hurt anyone!
I try to get clients to enjoy treats mindfully. Meaning you have to choose exactly what you want (no diet stuff) and keep it to one portion. Serve it on a pretty plate and focus on that treat in a quiet space. No media distractions, no kids yelling for your attention. Look at it as you eat, think about how great it tastes, savor and chew it slowly. Appreciate, fully. Make it a ceremony, as one of my clients described. If you eat treats this way, I’ll bet you a cupcake that you will be more satisfied with one portion than if you had gulped down three portions as you were browsing your daily Facebook feed. Try it at least once!
The treat recipes below are delicious but I’ve tried to use nutrient-packed ingredients as well. You can get a gooey fatty chocolate chip cookie recipe anywhere! So I’ve challenged myself to provide you with satisfying treats to savor that have healthful healing ingredients. Remember to still eat them mindfully.
Nutrition Prescriptions 