During the holiday season, many Americans worry about overeating and weight gain. A survey by Orlando Health found that nearly two in five Americans are concerned about how much they eat during festive gatherings. Some individuals resort to extreme measures such as skipping meals or going on a cleanse to counteract holiday indulgence. However, experts warn that such strategies can do more harm than good, leading to a restrict-binge cycle that can negatively impact one’s relationship with food. Dietitian Christine Byrne emphasizes the importance of normalizing eating habits during the holidays rather than resorting to drastic measures.
Byrne notes that many of her clients with disordered eating habits struggle during the holiday months, often slipping into patterns of restricting food before overindulging at holiday events. This cycle of restriction and bingeing can perpetuate feelings of guilt and shame, ultimately affecting one’s mental and physical well-being. Instead of trying to make up for holiday indulgence through restriction, Byrne advises returning to regular eating habits. Maintaining a balanced approach to food and honoring hunger cues can reduce the likelihood of overeating when faced with tempting holiday treats.
Sara Riehm, a dietitian at Orlando Health Center for Health Improvement, echoes Byrne’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of not falling into the trap of post-holiday detoxes or cleanses. Riehm points out that the body’s natural detoxification processes, carried out by the liver and kidneys, are sufficient without the need for trendy cleansing programs. She encourages individuals to focus on balanced nutrition and mindful eating rather than turning to quick-fix solutions that promise to “detoxify” the body. Riehm also recommends eating a light, balanced meal before attending holiday gatherings to help make healthier choices and avoid overindulging.
Both Byrne and Riehm emphasize that it is okay to enjoy treats and traditional holiday foods without feeling guilty. They stress the importance of listening to one’s body’s cues and responding with compassion and balance. By normalizing eating habits and approaching food with a positive mindset, individuals can navigate the holiday season without succumbing to the cycle of restriction and overindulgence. Ultimately, the key to a healthy relationship with food lies in moderation, mindfulness, and self-compassion, rather than resorting to extreme measures in an attempt to “make up for” holiday indulgence.
As the holiday season approaches, it is essential for individuals to prioritize their mental and physical well-being by adopting a balanced approach to eating. Rather than succumbing to the pressures of diet culture and societal expectations, experts recommend honoring hunger cues, practicing mindful eating, and enjoying holiday treats in moderation. By focusing on self-care and nourishment rather than guilt and restriction, individuals can navigate the holiday season with a sense of balance and positivity. Remember that it’s okay to indulge in your favorite holiday foods without feeling the need to “make up for it” later – your body knows best when it comes to nourishment and enjoyment.
