Each year, Christmas becomes a recurring topic in the debate on health.
The period is marked by Christmas lunches, family dinners, and sweet treats, which can make it difficult to stick to established eating habits.
According to dietitians from Sanitarium, many people experience stress and feelings of guilt around food during this time, especially if they already have health-related challenges.
The dietitians emphasize that Christmas does not necessarily have to be seen as a break from a healthy lifestyle, but rather as a period that requires a bit more awareness.
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Food and togetherness
The dietitians point out that Christmas food is often closely linked to social connection.
They therefore recommend that social gatherings not focus solely on eating, but also include movement, such as going for a walk or taking part in other shared activities.
They also highlight the importance of listening to the body’s signals.
If a person feels full, the experts say it is acceptable to take smaller portions or skip a meal later in the day.
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Small choices make a difference
When food is served, the dietitians recommend giving vegetables and salads more space on the plate.
This can help create balance, even when traditional Christmas dishes are part of the meal.
They also note that eating a good breakfast and drinking enough water can make it easier to manage multiple meals throughout the day.
A different view of health
The dietitians do not believe that Christmas food itself is the biggest problem, but rather the guilt that often accompanies it.
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They believe that focusing on enjoyment and balance is more sustainable than strict rules.
Christmas is described as a time when health is also about well-being and calm.
Sources: Sanitarium.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.