Christmas Dinner Survival Guide for Weight Management

The holiday season is here, and we know navigating Christmas dinner can feel challenging when you're on a weight management journey. If you're currently on a GLP-1 medication like Mounjaro or Wegovy, you might be experiencing some unique challenges this festive season. These ground-breaking weight management medications can significantly reduce your appetite and change how you experience food. Many people on GLP-1 medications find that rich, traditional Christmas dishes can feel overwhelming – whether it's due to reduced hunger, increased feelings of fullness, or potential nausea from heavier foods. The key is finding a balance: making strategic food swaps that allow you to enjoy all the festive traditions without compromising your weight management programme or making you feel uncomfortable.

But here's the good news: you don't have to choose between enjoying the festive feast and staying on track with your health goals. 

Rethinking Traditional Christmas Plate Choices

Portion Control is Key

Remember, it's not just about what you eat, but how much. Use these strategies:

• Use a smaller plate
• Fill half your plate with vegetables
• Eat slowly and mindfully
• Listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues

Staying Hydrated and Mindful

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or sugar-free beverages (you might want to limit alcohol intake when using GLP-1 medication - read more here) 
• Aim for at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day - Each glass helps you feel fuller and supports your metabolism

Conclusion 

It’s also important to understand that one day of bad eating doesn’t need to throw your progress off. Consistency is the key to sustained weight management for life. Yes, you can enjoy yourself for one day without worrying too much about the scales, but the key is not letting that indulgence turn into the norm. Christmas is a great time to celebrate your achievements and mark the season with people you love, and with these healthier festive food swaps, you can still indulge. Depriving yourself of delicious treats can have the opposite effect, making you miserable and more likely to break good habits. Finding more nutritious versions of old favourites allows you to feel part of the fun, and less likely to dip into snacks packed with sugar and saturated fat.

Remember: as our favourite saying goes: “it’s not what you do between Christmas and New Year - it’s what you do between New Year and Christmas.” Relax, enjoy and stay focused on striving towards your weight management goals in 2025! 

Want more? 

• Not feeling the Christmas spirit? We discuss whether GLP-1 medications can have an effect on your sex drive. 
• Ever wonder why sometimes, despite eating well and staying active, managing your weight still feels like an uphill battle? Spoiler: It might be your sleep. 
• Want to know if you’re eligible for the weight management programme? Start your consultation here.