The holiday season can be a wonderful time but if you feel anxious about food, it can also be really overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you enjoy Christmas with less stress around eating:
1. Remember: One Day Won’t Undo Your Progress
Christmas is one meal (or a few!) out of hundreds you’ll eat this year.
2. Keep to Your Usual Eating Pattern
Skipping breakfast to ‘save up’ for Christmas lunch often leaves you feeling extra hungry and more anxious. Eat regular meals and snacks instead.
3. Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy your Favourite Foods
Restriction fuels guilt and overeating. Allow yourself to enjoy festive foods mindfully, in a more balanced, satisfying way.
4. Tune In to How You Feel
Take a moment to pause before and after eating and ask, “what do I feel like now?” Sometimes that’s another plate of food and a drink, other times it’s a glass of water, a walk or rest.
5. Focus on Connection
Rather than focusing on what’s on your plate, enjoy spending time with loved ones sharing laughter and stories.
6. Set Gentle Boundaries
It’s okay to say “no, thank you” or change the subject if food comments or diet talk arise and makes you uncomfortable.
7. Reflect on What’s Really Important
Christmas memories aren’t made from portion sizes, they come from moments of love, joy, and kindness.
Our team at Canberra Allied Health supports clients across all areas from general wellbeing, metabolic and gut health to sports nutrition.
-By Claire Russell, Sports Dietitian
