JCC Big Night Olympics is Saturday, March 1, and the excitement is mounting! We’re anticipating the chance to dress up, catch up with friends, and enjoy an evening of music, dancing and laughter.  Many of us are also excited about the food, the drinks, and a fun reason to indulge.  After all, it’s a special occasion!

Unfortunately, my ability to recover from a “Big Night” is not what it used to be.  I’m sad to admit this, but a night of fun can quickly wreak havoc on all my healthy habits and turn into three days of regrets – thanks aging!  If you face this same challenge, but still want to enjoy a fantastic night out, here are 5 steps to help you plan ahead:

1. Take a Preemptive Approach.  The choices you make before you arrive can make or break your night (and the morning after). In the 24 hours beforehand, prioritize sleep and make sure to get in a workout.  Be sure to eat a balanced meal leading up to the event.  For example, don’t skip lunch to “save room” for later.  That will just make you eager to devour everything in sight the moment you arrive.
2. Implement Strategies to Avoid Over-Indulging. Rather than rely on will-power, have some proven strategies in mind.  Decide on a drink limit in advance, and switch to sparkling water when you reach it.  Sit down while eating instead of grazing all night. Keep a glass of water in your hand to slow down the impulse to grab another drink or snack.
3. Enjoy Non-Food Fun. Shift your focus away from food and drinks to other things you’ll enjoy. Connect with someone you haven’t seen in while, dance and check out the Silent Auction.
4. Prepare for a Smooth Recovery.  Sleep and Hydration are the keys to recovery.  Hydrate before bed.  Create a good sleep environment by darkening your room and keeping it cool. if you go to bed later than normal, push back your wake-up if you can. Aim for 8 hours.
5. Strike a Healthy Balance the Next Morning.  As soon as you wake up, seize the first opportunity to do something positive for your health.  For example:  Move, but don’t punish yourself to “make up for” last night. Instead, do a light workout (walk, yoga, or cycling) to shake off the sluggishness.  Eat a nourishing breakfast. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but your body probably isn’t actually craving greasy diner food.  It’s asking for healthy fats, protein and fiber. Try eggs with avocado or a veggie omelet.  Bottom line, don’t restrict. Deprivation will only lead to more cravings throughout the day.

Note: This year’s Big Night menu is designed to help you enjoy the party and avoid paying for it the next day. The menu includes mocktails – so timely given all the recent research showing that moderate consumption of wine really doesn’t have any health benefits.  It turns out that it’s not the 2 glasses of red wine that boosts heart health and longevity; it’s having relaxed, fun, well-paced meals with friends and family that boosts our health.  All the more reason to enjoy a mocktail with good friends at Big Night.  And more food for thought – the menu will includes healthy and gluten free options as well!

Most importantly, Enjoy yourself!  Remember to thank all the organizers and volunteers who help us all have such a “BIG NIGHT” out!

Get your Big Night Tickets HERE

Carolyn Kontos, MS, ACC, offers Wellness & Nutrition Coaching at the JCC through her Eat Well Programs. For more information, contact Carolyn at ckontos@jccpgh.org

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