The holiday season is here.. a time for festive gatherings, delicious food, and lots of opportunities to indulge. It’s also a season where many of us get confused with how to navigate the balance between enjoyment and overindulgence. Some worry about what they do between December and January, but it’s worth remembering that what you do between January and December matters far more in the bigger picture.
Moderation looks different for everyone, and the key is finding what works best for you. Here are a few perspectives to consider as you’re thinking about your personal approach to holiday balance when it comes to your nutrition:
A simple way to enjoy the special holiday foods you love is the 25/75 plate rule. This has been one of my favourite ways myself over the years! Fill about 25% of your plate with indulgent foods you don’t usually eat. Whether it’s that creamy casserole, sugary dessert, or buttery stuffing. Use the other 75% for the nourishing foods you typically enjoy, like veggies, lean protein, or fresh salads. This strategy allows you to savour the flavours of the season without overdoing it.
What often derails us during the holidays isn’t the food itself but our mindset about it. Feelings of guilt over a few indulgences can snowball into the “all-or-nothing” trap, where one extra cookie leads to throwing the entire plan out the window, skipping workouts, and eating garbage on the regular. Instead, shift your perspective: a treat here and there is a part of life, not a setback. You can give yourself permission to enjoy without judgment, as long as it’s a healthy approach for YOU. (Also: eating cookies AND exercise can co-exist together). On the flip side of the strict mindset, is when we indulge a too much, where every meal becomes the treat.. then convince ourself that it’s a ‘treat and it’s okay because it’s the holiday season’ but then get upset about weight gain, sugary mood swings, lack of energy, etc because all that was eaten were non-nutritious foods for 2 months. There’s a balance between the two, again, think about what works for you. Some people thrive with a structured plan through the holidays, sticking to routines and setting clear boundaries. Others prefer a more flexible approach, choosing to let go of strict tracking and embracing the season with a relaxed mindset. Both are valid. Nobody is holier-than-thou because of their approach. The trick is knowing yourself and what keeps you feeling balanced and happy. If moderation feels natural, lean into it. If taking a break helps your mental health, that’s okay too.
The holidays are just a small slice of the year. What you do the rest of the time (January to December), has a far greater impact on your health, fitness, and goals. One or two celebratory meals won’t undo months of progress. So, enjoy the moments that matter most, whether it’s sipping hot cocoa by the fire or savouring a festive meal with loved ones.
The Bottom Line: There’s no right or wrong way to approach holiday eating. Choose the version of moderation that feels sustainable and satisfying for you.
-Christina
The Transformation Station 