Kiddipedia

Kiddipedia

The holiday season is a time of joy, indulgence, and, sometimes, stress. With festive treats, overflowing punch bowls, and family politics, it’s easy for our healthy habits to slip. Here’s how to enjoy the festivities while keeping stress in check:

  1. Embrace Moderation

The holidays can lead to an all-or-nothing approach: either abandoning your healthy routines or clinging too tightly to them. Aim for balance by enjoying your favourite foods and drinks in moderation. Savour each bite and remember that a little indulgence won’t undo your progress. Don’t let guilt or stress overshadow the fun.

  1. Prioritise Movement

With the holiday hustle, exercise can often be overlooked. However, even light activities, like a 15-20-minute walk, can help you stay active and manage stress. It’s a great way to digest after meals and maintain your energy levels. Any movement is better than none, so find opportunities to stay active, even if it’s less than usual.

  1. Mindful Drinking

Alcohol is often a staple at holiday gatherings, but whilst it might help you to feel relaxed at the time, it’s actually a huge stressor on your body. Try to minimise your drinking by having water between each alcoholic beverage, and set a limit for yourself, like three drinks per evening. Pair your drinks with food to slow down alcohol absorption and keep your energy up.

  1. Support Your Liver

Your liver works hard to process alcohol and sugar. Support it by taking a B-complex vitamin before and after drinking, and include liver-friendly foods like leafy greens in your diet. Reducing caffeine and unnecessary medications (cue the hangover headache panadol) can also help your liver manage the holiday excesses more effectively.

  1. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can be mistaken for hunger, leading to overeating. Alcohol and caffeine increase your water needs, so aim for 2-3 litres of filtered water daily. Drink most of your water away from meals to avoid digestive discomfort. For an extra boost of zen, integrate Glowable’s Adapt formula into your daily routine, this helps manage stress and supports overall wellbeing.

  1. Balance Your Plate

Keep your energy levels steady by filling your plate with protein, healthy fats, and greens. Opt for smaller portions of starchy foods and enjoy dessert in moderation. This balanced approach helps maintain steady energy and prevents overeating.

  1. Take Time Out & Schedule Rest

The holiday season can be overwhelming with social obligations and family gatherings. Make sure to carve out time for rest and self-care. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a hot bath, or some alone time with a book, prioritising downtime helps you recharge and manage stress more effectively.

By Tegan Marshall, Clinical Naturopath & Founder of Glowable