As the holiday season ushers in festive treats and indulgences, experts emphasize the importance of maintaining balance and regularity in dietary choices. Stephanie Dang, co-founder of Vancouver Dieticians, suggests prioritizing stability over irregularity, especially during a time when underlying food anxieties may intensify.
Dang observes a common pattern where individuals overindulge in holiday foods during December, only to compensate by adopting restrictive eating habits in January. Instead, she advocates for practicing regularity and self-compassion throughout the year, emphasizing that there is no perfect diet.
“Be really kind to yourself,” Dang advises, highlighting the significance of self-love through consistent and mindful eating. Acknowledging that food will be available beyond the holiday season can help alleviate unnecessary stress associated with dietary choices.
Many clients confide in Dang about their tendency to avoid holiday gatherings due to fears of overeating or potential judgment from others. She discourages engaging in “dreaded diet talk” during celebrations, emphasizing that commenting on someone’s physical appearance can exert undue pressure, particularly during the holidays.
Dang emphasizes that health is not solely about restriction; adding nutritious foods to one’s diet can be more sustainable than eliminating certain items. Focusing on fueling the body adequately is key, and Dang encourages those with access to dietitian services to utilize them for personalized guidance.
“Just making sure you’re fueling your body,” she suggests, noting that insufficient food intake prompts the body to seek nourishment actively. Seeking professional help is seen as a positive step, as Dang reassures that individuals are not expected to be experts in every aspect of their health.
In navigating the holiday season, Dang’s advice resonates: prioritize balance, practice self-compassion, and approach food with a mindset of regularity and nourishment.
