‘Tis the season of joy and laughter, friendship and celebration, and of course “treats” galore. The holidays can be a challenging time to maintain healthy habits but some new research shows that help could be as easy as a short walk. (Seriously, what isn’t walking good for?!) In a recent study, regular chocolate-eaters were placed in a simulated work environment with a bowl of chocolate on their desk. Two groups were asked to take a brisk, fifteen-minute walk on a treadmill and then were given a task to complete.¹ One group was given an easy, low-stress task while the other, one that was more challenging. Two other groups were asked to rest before completing the same tasks as the first two groups. Those who had exercised before working consumed half the amount of chocolate as the others regardless of work task, suggesting that stress did not contribute to their cravings. Mindless eating is common in the workplace and while exercise has been shown to decrease cravings, this study is the first to show an actual decrease in consumption. In a season where we are exposed to even more treats and temptations than usual, walking may just be the solution to moderating our intake. Happy walking and happy holidays!

¹Hwajung Oh, Adrian H. Taylor. (2011). Brisk walking reduces ad libitum snacking in regular chocolate eaters during a workplace simulation. Appetite: 58(1): 387-392.