BUFFET THE DAY AWAY

There is nothing better than your hotel offering continental breakfast…except when it’s served buffet style. Buffet is honestly one of my favorite things ever, you get choose how much food you want and exactly how you want it. Can’t decide between an omelet or oatmeal? Get a little of both! You also have the choice of getting seconds or even thirds unlike restaurant style eating, but this is where your eyes may appear bigger than your stomach.

As great as a buffet can be, they can also be quite overwhelming and lead to over eating. I used to LOAD my plate at any buffet I was at. There was no mindfulness in my eating, if I saw something I liked I got it and ate it all then ran back for more so I could get the best bang for my buck(or my parent’s lol).

Just because the food is there doesn’t mean you need to eat it all. Listening to your body and hunger cues is important when it comes to all you can eat kind of deal. Be mindful while you eat. Take time to chew your food and enjoy it. Pause for a few minutes to see how you feel before getting up to get another plate. If you do want seconds or thirds go for a fruit bowl or a small bowl of oatmeal.

Let’s talk about the typical foods offered. There’s usually some eggs, sausage, toast/bagels, oatmeal, potatoes, fruit, yogurt, maybe an omelet bar if you’re lucky, french toast or pancakes, and always some sort of baked good. SO many options, but what’s the best one that will make you feel good? Sure you can grab a couple mini muffins, some eggs, a slice of french toast, and a glass of orange juice, but will that keep you satisfied? Probably not and it’s also going to cause a spike in your blood sugar due to the simple carbs your feeding your body. BUT you’re on vacation or away for work, so treat yourself?? This is where balance comes in. A more nutritious choice that will still give you those vacay vibes would be; a veggie omelet, slice of whole wheat toast, bowl of fruit, and a mini muffin to-go for your later sweet tooth craving(if you still have it!). This meal has protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and complex carbs with that side of fruit to give you a little something sweet~nature’s candy!

Yes buffets are amazing and so much fun, but remember to not get too crazy and listen to your eyes, but instead your stomach. Getting the best bang for your buck isn’t eating everything you can fit on your plate, but eating foods that will satisfy you for your day so you don’t end up hungry an hour later. Protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs are your friends~eat well to feel good.