Yachtie Glow: Drop that candy craving

Nov 22, 2017 by Angela Orecchio

Yachtie Glow: by Chief Stew Angela Orecchio

It’s been a long day at work, the crew is tired, and everyone needs a bit of stimulation and release from stress. Junk food is designed to satisfy those needs on a physical, mental and emotional level, which is why we become addicted to it.

As humans we love to crunch, taste and experience food in our mouths. We also feel totally satisfied from certain levels of salt, sugar and fat. This is why the crew mess table becomes a place to socialize and share candy, chips, soda and other junk food.

Still, the consequences of eating too much junk food are vast. Some consequences include feeling more tired after the initial junk food “high,” weight gain, mood and blood sugar imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies.

The issue with yachts is that many provide unlimited access to junk food. I, personally, have filled trolleys with candy, chips and sodas that would feed a small army, so I know.

If we want to feel better, and get fit and healthy as crew, the amount of junk food on board must be considered.

Speak to the captain about why the amount of junk food might be a problem on board and how reducing it will improve crew performance in the long run. Ask if he or she will address the issue with the crew.

Create a small space for junk food, rather than an entire cupboard or many drawers. Only buy a certain amount of junk food per week; when it’s finished, crew must wait until the next week for more. Emphasis that the boat is not trying to control the personal choices crew make.  Crew are welcome to buy what they want and keep it in a Tupperware in their cabin, should they choose to.

Buy healthier – but delicious – snacks to replace candy, chips, soda and other junk foods. Some of these items include fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, hummus and other healthy spreads, some healthier chips and snack bars.  

The best way to change those around you is to change yourself and the vibe you create on board. Eat healthy foods yourself and be a good influence on those around you. Show that you enjoy what you eat and that everyone can socialize, have fun and be healthy at the same time.

My trick for staying healthy and still indulging is to create my own treats. Try these three easy, healthy snacks you can make in the crew mess.  No cooking, minimal mess and super fast!

Chia Pudding

Combine chia seeds with any type of nut milk, and add honey or chopped fruit.  Mix together, cover and put in fridge until mixture has thickened.

No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Heat honey and peanut butter together (can use the microwave), then stir in oats. Line a container with parchment paper and pour in mixture. Store in fridge and cut into squares.

Apple Slice ‘Cookies’

Slice apples, spread almond or peanut butter on the slices, then add walnuts, coconut flakes and cacao nibs on top.

Angela Orecchio is a chief stew, certified fitness instructor and health coach. This column was edited from her blog, Savvy Stewardess, The Smart Girl’s Guide to Yachting (www.savvystewardess.com). Comments are welcome below.

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About Angela Orecchio

Angela Orecchio is a chief stew and certified health coach. This column was edited from blog, Savvy Stewardess, The Smart Girl’s Guide to Yachting. Contact her through www.savvystewardess.com.

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