Christmas eating – fancy trying a different approach?

This article was first shared as The Everyday Nutrition Newsletter. Sign up via the from at the bottom of this page to receive the newsletter in your inbox every month.

The Christmas season is here, and with it comes the usual plethora of treats, parties and “just one more mince pie” moments.

But what if we approached this Christmas a little differently?

Christmas eating tips

Instead of thinking about what you shouldn’t eat, let’s think about what you truly enjoy.

Mindful indulgence is all about tuning in to your body and your tastes, savouring the flavours you love, and letting go of the guilt.

And, before you ask, there is some scientific evidence here: mindful eating is known to slow your eating and, in turn, reduce how much you eat. It also helps to improve digestion and generally promote healthy eating habits.

Here are a few ways to make Christmas eating feel joyful rather than stressful:

• Pause and taste – take a moment to really notice the flavours of that truffle, the aroma of the pigs in blankets, or the crunch of the crisp. This helps you to enjoy more with less.

• Pick your favourites – you don’t need to eat everything. Choose the treats that really matter to you.

• Balance, not restriction – pair indulgent foods with nourishing ones to keep your energy levels steady and your mood balanced.

• Enjoy social connection – remember that festive meals are about more than food. Laughing, chatting and sharing time with loved ones counts too.

Indulging mindfully doesn’t mean deprivation. It means enjoying what you love in a way that leaves you feeling satisfied, not bloated or guilty.

This approach supports both your wellbeing and your midlife metabolism – without turning Christmas into a battle of willpower.

Wishing you a season of joy, flavour and mindful indulgence! 🎅🏻