Your End-of-Year Nutrition: Enjoy the Holidays Without Starting Over in January

As we finish up another year, I know many women start feeling that familiar mix of excitement…and a little dread. December is busy, full of events, food, bubbles, travel, late nights, and routines that don't stick quite as well.

And if you’re working towards better health, more energy, or weight loss, it’s easy to worry that a few weeks of celebration will undo everything you’ve worked hard for.

But.....You can absolutely enjoy the holidays without landing back at square one in the new year. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Here are a few simple reminders that help my clients stay on track, without feeling restricted or missing out.

1. Aim to “maintain the basics,” not be perfect

December isn’t the month to set huge goals. Instead, keep your easy wins front and centre:

• Start your day with protein

• Drink enough water

• Get some movement in most days

• Have balanced meals when you can

These little anchors make the biggest difference, even when life gets full.

2. Arrive at events not starving

One of the quickest ways to lose control around food is turning up hungry. Have a small protein-rich snack before you go, yoghurt, boiled eggs, chicken, a smoothie. It takes the edge off so you can enjoy the food without overeating.

3. Keep an eye on the “extras”

It’s not usually Christmas Day that throws people off, it’s the constant grazing, work platters, Cadbury Favourites lying around the house, leftovers, and mindless snacking. A quick pause and a “do I actually want this?” helps more than you think.

4. Move your body because it feels good

Walks, a quick workout, stretching, a bike ride with the kids. Movement is one of the best ways to support energy, appetite, digestion and your sanity during the festive chaos.

5. Enjoy yourself

Food is part of celebrating. You are allowed to enjoy it without guilt. A few weeks of holiday eating won’t undo a whole year of effort if you keep some structure in place and go into January with a clear plan.

Looking Ahead to the New Year

I already have a few clients booked in to kick-start their health and nutrition goals from mid-January, and I still have a couple of spots left for one-to-one coaching.

If these fill up, or if you’d prefer a group setting with support from others, my Perimenopause Nutrition Reset group program kicks off again in early February. Click to join the waitlist.

If you’d like help starting 2026 feeling more energised, lighter, and confident in your choices, now’s a great time to get in touch.