Health

Banking Calories: Should You Eat Less Now to Indulge Later?

Discover why 'banking calories'—eating less now to indulge later—can harm your diet goals. Learn healthier strategies for balancing nutrition and enjoying special occasions.

seofaizan 3 min read · 2 years ago

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A person is seated at a wooden table enjoying a healthy breakfast. The setup includes a bowl of muesli with almonds and dried fruits, a cup of green tea, and a teapot placed on a blue cloth. The individual wears a watch on their left wrist and is holding a magazine with an open page displaying an article titled "Splendour in the Grass.

When you are dieting and a holiday party or banquet is on the horizon, the temptation to prepare for indulgence can be overwhelming. You know the evening will bring a feast, complete with an open bar and endless party snacks. Faced with this scenario, you might wonder: Should I eat less earlier in the day to "save" calories for the evening?

This is often referred to as "banking calories," as if you can "save up" for future indulgences, much like stashing money for a splurge. It sounds logical, but if you are serious about your fitness and nutrition goals, the answer is clearly no. Here's why—and what you should do instead.

The output is: Healthy Options Are Always Available

Let’s be honest: no matter how decadent the spread at a party, there’s almost always a tray of healthy options tucked away. Amid the chips, cookies, dips, and endless high-calorie treats, you’ll likely find offerings like carrot sticks, celery, fruit, turkey breast, or other nutritious snacks. The key is to consciously opt for smaller portions of indulgent foods and prioritize the healthier options available.