15 -Tips for a Healthier Christmas
The festive season is a time for joy, connection, and indulgence, but it can also leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and exhausted. Whether it’s the endless treats or the extra glass (or three) of mulled wine, the festive period often throws our healthy habits out of the window. But don’t worry! With a few mindful tweaks, you can enjoy all the magic of Christmas without overburdening your body.
Here are some tips to help you feel your best throughout Christmas and enjoy every moment.
Nutrition Tips for a Happier Tummy
Start the Day with Breakfast : Skipping breakfast might seem like a good way to “save calories,” but by 11 a.m., those mince pies and chocolates become irresistible. Instead, fuel up with a breakfast rich in protein and fibre, like scrambled eggs with veggies or Greek yoghurt with nuts. This combination balances blood sugar, keeps you fuller for longer, and makes it easier to resist grazing on sugary snacks.
Mindful eating: Christmas treats are part of the season's joy, but they can also wreak havoc on digestion, especially if you have IBS, heartburn, or acid reflux. Instead of trying to resist entirely, choose one or two treat foods per day. By spacing them out, you give your digestion a break while still enjoying Christmas favourites.
Boost Veggies at Every Meal: Cooked buttered vegetables with your roast turkey or a fresh salad alongside leftover ham can help balance blood sugar and support digestion. Veggies are rich in fibre and nutrients, which help your stomach handle richer foods and slow sugar absorption.
Stop Eating When You’re Full: Overeating not only leads to discomfort but can also trigger acid reflux and heartburn. Take a moment to check in with your body during meals. If you’re feeling full, it’s okay to pause and enjoy dessert later.
Support Your Digestion: Richer meals can be challenging to digest. Digestive enzymes can provide extra support, especially if you’re not used to heavier foods. For those prone to acid reflux, try sleeping on your left side with an extra pillow to reduce discomfort, and for diarrhoea, stay hydrated with electrolytes.
Lifestyle Tips for a Stress-Free Festive Season
Plan Your Indulgences: Like holidays, Christmas is filled with moments where “anything goes.” Instead of feeling conflicted, decide in advance what indulgences are most important to you—an extra glass of wine, a slice of Christmas pudding, or some buttery roast potatoes. Stick to your plan, and you’ll enjoy these treats without the guilt.
Hydrate Wisely: Alcohol, sugary drinks, and endless cups of coffee can leave you dehydrated and sluggish. Balance these with water or herbal teas. Drinking plenty of fluids also helps manage digestion and supports your body when processing rich foods.
Pause and Breathe: The rush of the Christmas season can take its toll on your mood and digestion. Take a few minutes each day to relax. Deep breathing or a gentle walk can work wonders for reducing stress, which in turn helps prevent digestive issues like IBS flares or heartburn.
Stay Active: Even a short walk after meals can aid digestion and reduce bloating. Make it a family affair go and see the lights, or time on the swings! it’s a fun way to sneak in some movement.
Rest and Recharge: The holidays often mean late nights and packed schedules. Give yourself permission to rest. Adequate sleep is essential for mood, digestion, and overall well-being, helping you truly enjoy the festive spirit.
What About Holiday Travel?
If you’re travelling during the holidays, the same principles apply. Rich foods, disrupted routines, and stress can all challenge your gut health. Whether you’re jetting off to a sunny beach or hosting family at home, here are a few tips for staying balanced:
Choose Protein at Every Meal: Start your day with eggs or yoghurt rather than sugary pastries and prioritise lean meats, fish, or legumes at lunch and dinner. Protein keeps you full and stabilises blood sugar.
Watch the Carbs: It’s tempting to load up on bread, pasta, and chips when you’re out of your routine. Instead, aim for one high-carb meal a day and balance it with lighter options like salads or veggie-packed dishes.
Limit Sugary Cocktails: Festive cocktails like piña coladas or eggnog might be delicious, but they’re packed with sugar that spikes blood sugar and disrupts sleep. If you indulge, balance with a protein-rich snack beforehand to mitigate the effects.
Snack Smart: Instead of constantly grazing, opt for one mindful snack each day. A handful of nuts, a piece of fruit, or a protein bar can tide you over without overloading your system.
Ease Into New Foods: If you have a sensitive stomach, introduce new or richer foods slowly. Your gut may need time to adjust, especially if your holiday destination has different cuisines or water.
Enjoy the Season Without Sacrificing Your Well-Being
Christmas is a time to savour, not just food, but moments with loved ones. By finding balance—whether it’s through mindful treats or prioritising hydration and rest—you can make the most of the festivities while keeping your body happy.
So, this holiday season, eat the foods you love, sip the drinks you enjoy, and soak up every magical moment. With these tips, you’ll step into the new year feeling refreshed, not frazzled.
Cheers to a joyful and healthy Christmas🎄🎄!
When you’re ready now or in the New Year - please contact me and book a free 30-minute discovery call
We can work together 1-2-1 or on a group programme
Jackie xxx
