Did you miss last week’s LIVE on YouTube? You can watch it here or if you’d rather read it, here it is!

Hey, everyone! Dr. Andrea Christian Parks here, welcoming you to the year 2024. It’s crazy how time flies – just a moment ago, it felt like 2022. Whether you’re catching this live or on the replay, I’m thrilled you’re here. As we dive into the new year, I want to share some insights, a shift in approach, and a bit of a different perspective.

In the background of my work supporting clients and sharing weight loss success stories, a realization hit me. It’s time to bring something to the forefront, something that has been quietly guiding my journey and the journeys of those I’ve worked with. So, what’s happening? Well, everything I teach about weight loss connects to what I believe God has designed for our bodies.

I’m not just bringing my physician mindset, holistic nutrition training, and coaching expertise into play; I’m putting spirituality at the forefront. It’s about syncing our efforts with a higher purpose, keeping in step with the spirit. So, let’s dive into the heart of the matter.

Thanksgiving for Guidance

But before we begin, let’s start with a moment of gratitude. Thank you, Father, for this time, for allowing me to be here with everyone watching. Guide me in sharing information that will be genuinely useful, and let your spirit support and guide each person. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Navigating the January Hype

Now, why are we here? The beginning of the year brings a surge of energy, with many diving into programs and workout regimens. It’s fantastic, but let’s be honest – that initial fire and excitement tend to dwindle. That’s why I’ve decided to do a weekly series. Each week, I’ll share something crucial for your weight loss success – not overwhelming, just enough to incorporate into your life.

This week, let’s tackle a topic close to many hearts – snacking. I’m not just a disapproving critic; I want to shed light on why snacking might not be the weight loss ally you thought it was.

The Snacking Revelation

So, why the skepticism about snacking? Two key reasons. First off, what we often consider a harmless snack is, biologically speaking, an additional meal. Whether it’s grapes, carrots, or hummus, your body undergoes the same process of releasing insulin and other hormones to handle the ingested food. Now, for those of us in the over 35 or over 40 club, doing this frequently doesn’t work as well.

The whole concept of the six-meal-a-day strategy? It’s a myth. Releasing insulin multiple times keeps you in storage mode, hindering fat burning. Yes, there’s a slight metabolic boost, but it doesn’t offset the calories consumed. It’s a delicate balance that often tips in favor of excess intake.

Snacking: A Cultural Construct

Beyond the biological aspect, let’s consider how our culture influences snacking. Back in the 50s, it was a simpler time – breakfast, lunch, dinner. No Doritos, no Cheetos, just wholesome meals. Fast forward to today, and snack foods are everywhere – a creation of the food industry’s desire for increased consumption and profit.

Think about your kids’ events – snacks everywhere! Childhood obesity is, in part, linked to the constant availability of snacks. The three-meals-a-day construct is, in fact, a random norm. Eating intervals used to be different – morning and night. No midnight Netflix and ice cream sessions.

Understanding Snacking Motivations

Remember, snacking isn’t just about hunger. That 3:00 PM craving might not be genuine hunger but a trained response or a call for energy during that afternoon slump. Recognizing these non-hunger-related triggers is crucial. If we eliminate these reasons for eating, not driven by hunger, we’re on the path to weight loss success.

So, the next time you contemplate a snack at an odd hour, remember – it’s more than just hunger. Snacking is a meal, and it’s part of an artificially constructed culture. By acknowledging this, you empower yourself to make mindful choices.

Connecting with Me

If you have questions or comments, I’m here for you. Comment below these posts or reach me on my website at DrAndreaChristianParks.com. I’m thrilled to be back with you all. Have a fantastic afternoon and an amazing week ahead. Until next time – bye!