There's a Reason it's Called 'Fat Tuesday'

For those of you who don't know (or don't care), today is Mardi Gras. Literal translation: Fat Tuesday; the day when you're "supposed" to pig out and eat pancakes. Just watching the news this morning I saw images of happy diner patrons consuming whipped-cream and maple syrup laden pancakes the size of my head (with a couple of blueberries sprinkled on top...). I couldn't help but wonder how many calories are in all of that?

After a little bit of research, I changed my tune and realized that maybe this "Fat Tuesday" isn't such a bad idea. You see, the tradition of pigging out or "fattening up" on Mardi Gras is actually a custom of the Catholic religion done in preparation for 40 days of fasting and sacrifice for Lent. Maybe this is an extreme example of discipline and a once-in-a-while treat, but I think it goes to show that you can most definitely reward yourself with a bad-for-you, full-fat treat so long as you counteract all the bad stuff by making up for it with really healthy, disciplined eating habits combined with exercise.

Sure, you could always create healthy, low-fat treat recipes if you want to have them more often, but where's the fun and reward in that? Besides, shocking your metabolism once in a while is not such a bad idea, as long as it is just that - once in a while! Now where's that whipped cream......?