When to Indulge, When to Skip: Your Guide to Smart Holiday Eating
Description
As the holiday season draws near, it's a time of excitement, connection, and celebration—but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when you’re trying to prioritize your health. Between family gatherings, changes in routine, and an abundance of food, finding balance can feel more difficult than ever. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
In this episode, I share three practical tips to help you stay on track with your health during the holiday season—or any time of year when food is plentiful and routines are disrupted. These strategies are ones I’ve learned over the years, and I hope they’ll be just as helpful for you. My goal is for you to fully enjoy the season while making simple, intentional choices that support your health. Whether you’re navigating a family holiday or any event with lots of food, these tips will help you feel confident and in control.
References
Ep. 89: No, It’s Not Okay to Comment on My Weight (+ How to Respond When It Happens)
Audio Stamps
00:53 - This episode isn’t just for the holidays—it’s for any occasion where food is plentiful, helping you stay mindful and in control.
01:44 - Dr. Rentea reminds us that we have the choice to respond to triggering comments in a way that feels right for us and shares a listener's thoughtful alternative.
03:23 - Tip #1 for the holidays: Identifying small ways to regain control.
06:07 - Tip #2 for the holidays: How to decide what’s truly 'worth it' for you when it comes to holiday foods.
08:35 - Tip #3: ‘Planning for magic’ by including foods that make you feel great throughout the day.
09:04 - Dr. Rentea recommends focusing on one or two simple habits to help you feel great during the holidays.
11:12 - Dr. Rentea shares how the holiday season is a time of gratitude for her, and takes a moment to thank her listeners, coaching clients, and clinic community.
Quotes
“It's important for us to remember that we always have some level of control.”
“The two things that I always do, no matter what, no matter where I am, I take a walk in the morning and I drink my water.”
“What are the things that actually move the needle the most for me daily? Usually it's only one or two that if you do those things, you're still going to be set. And there's no reason why, on a holiday day, you still can't get those things done.”
“I want you to plan for magic.”
“Whenever we head into the holiday time, it’s really a time of gratitude for me.”
All of the information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only. Please talk to your physician and medical team about what is right for you. No medical advice is being on this podcast.
If you live in Indiana or Illinois and want to work with doctor Matthea Rentea, you can find out more on www.RenteaClinic.com