Festive celebrations like Christmas, Easter, birthdays, or long weekends are often filled with joy, family, and… food. Lots of it. But while these occasions are meant to be enjoyed, they also tend to lead to unwanted weight gain with many people putting on an average of 7lbs during festive periods, which can take months to lose, if it comes off at all.
This year, instead of undoing all your hard work, you can celebrate mindfully and still stay on track with your health goals. Whether you’re following a health programme or simply trying to eat better, here are some practical ways to enjoy the festivities without the guilt.
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Stick to Your Plan – You Shouldn’t Feel Hungry
One of the best things about a low-carb, higher fat and protein approach is that it keeps you feeling full and satisfied. This means you’re less likely to snack on sweets and pastries just because they’re in front of you. Let your eating plan be your guide.
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Make Your Home a Trigger-Free Zone
If you know certain foods are your weakness, don’t bring them home. It’s much easier to avoid temptation when it’s not staring you in the face every time you open the cupboard. Stock your kitchen with foods that support your goals and ditch the rest.
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Shop Smart
Never go shopping hungry that’s when impulse buys happen. Head to the supermarket with a plan, a full stomach, and a clear idea of what you need.
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Be Work-Snack Savvy
Celebrations at work can turn into snack fests. Tins of biscuits, free cakes, sandwich platters it all adds up. Take your food so you’re not caught off-guard. If sandwiches are on offer, ditch the bread and enjoy the filling.
Boiled eggs (if they’re available!) are a brilliant, protein-packed snack to keep on hand.
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Plan Well When Eating Out
If you’re heading to a restaurant or someone else’s home, look at the menu ahead of time or think through your food choices before you go. Commit to your plan in advance, and stick to it once you’re there.
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Embrace Low-Carb Festive Foods
Great news—many celebration foods are naturally low in carbohydrates. You can still enjoy:
- Smoked salmon
- Roast meats like turkey or lamb
- Eggs (devilled or boiled)
- Roasted vegetables
- Red cabbage and sprouts (especially with bacon!)
- Cheese boards with options like stilton or cheddar
Let others know you’re eating low-carb most people will be supportive, and it helps avoid awkward explanations at the table.
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If You’re Having a Big Meal, Make It Your Only Meal
If you know you’ll be indulging in a large festive lunch or dinner, let that be your main meal of the day. Skip the extra nibbles before and after quality over quantity wins every time.
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Move More During the Break
Holidays often mean time off work, so use it to your advantage. Even a 20-minute walk after meals can help balance blood sugar levels and aid digestion. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with family, and friends, or simply enjoy some fresh air.
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Handle Cravings with Intention
Cravings will come. Here’s how to manage them:
- Have a glass of water or herbal tea
- Take a short walk or stretch
- Still hungry? Opt for a meal rich in protein and healthy fats
Often, just pausing and doing something else helps you realise the craving will pass.
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Lean on Your Support System
Use tools like the GOQii app to message your coach, or reach out to a supportive friend or family member. A few encouraging words can help you stay focused and avoid emotional eating.
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If You Slip, Reset Right Away
A moment of indulgence doesn’t mean the whole celebration is ruined. The most important thing is to get back on track with your next meal, don’t wait until Monday or after the holidays. Progress isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being consistent.
Festive celebrations are meant to be joyful, but that joy doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health. With a little preparation, awareness, and self-compassion, you can enjoy the food, fun, and family time while staying true to your goals.
This Christmas or any special occasion, celebrate with intention, savour every bite, and remind yourself how far you’ve come. Healthy habits don’t take holidays, but they can make holidays even better.
#BeTheForce
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.
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Am I thirsty or hungry? That’s the question I have started asking myself when I get hunger pangs. This has happened to me quite often when I have just had a meal and I feel hungry within an hour. One day, I decided to conduct an experiment on myself wherein I just placed a glass of water and a bowl of almonds in front of me on my work desk and continued working. I had just finished my meal and was waiting for the hunger pang to hit me. I got the pang and before I reached out for the bowl of almonds, I grabbed the glass of water and gulped it down. Thereafter, I did not feel the need to eat the almonds.
