We're nearly at the season of indulgence, and for many, that comes with a hefty serving of guilt about overeating.
But here’s the thing: overeating, especially at Christmas, isn’t a personal failing.
It’s the result of a perfect storm of factors designed to encourage us to eat more than we need.
From the festive buffets loaded with treats to the relentless marketing of indulgent foods, Christmas is a time when overeating feels almost inevitable.
Our environment plays a huge role in shaping how much we eat, and during the festive season, that environment is turned up to the max.
Are you feeling guilty because you overeat? You shouldn't... read on to understand why.
Why it’s not your fault
Food is designed to tempt you
Many festive foods are ultra-palatable – designed to hit the perfect balance of fat, sugar and salt to make them irresistible.
These aren’t your average snacks; they’re engineered to keep you coming back for more.
Social pressures are real
Eating is a social activity, especially during the Christmas period.
If everyone else is having a second slice of cake or reaching for another mince pie, it’s hard not to join in.
Social eating is lovely but can nudge us into eating more than we intended.
Eating is a distraction from our emotions
Life, and indeed the Christmas season, can be stressful, nostalgic or even lonely.
Food often becomes a comfort or distraction from these emotions.
Add in the 'Christmas calories don’t count' mindset, and it’s easy to see how overeating happens.
Big portions are normalised
Ever noticed how portions seem to double in size during December?
Plates are piled high, and snacks are everywhere.
When food is so readily available, it’s hard to resist.
Why you don’t need to feel guilty
Food is about more than just fuel; it’s culture, connection and celebration.
Beating yourself up about eating too much adds stress and takes away from the joy.
The guilt itself can lead to cycles of overeating and restriction, which aren’t great for your mental or physical health.
Letting go of guilt doesn’t mean throwing mindful eating out the window.
It’s about approaching food with self-compassion and tuning in to what your body needs.
Sometimes that might mean an extra slice of Christmas pudding, and sometimes it might mean saying no.
Finding balance
It’s okay to indulge – Christmas is about feasting and enjoying good food with loved ones.
But if you find yourself overeating, don’t let guilt take over.
Instead, ask yourself how you feel, both physically and emotionally, and what you might need to feel better in the moment.
And let’s not forget: overeating now and then isn’t going to derail your overall health.
In fact, tuning in to how you feel after indulgences can help you make choices that support your health over time.
Life (and the Christmas season) isn’t about perfection – it’s about connection, joy and shared moments.
Food is part of that, so give yourself permission to enjoy it without judgement.
Good luck! 💖
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