The holiday season is here, and if you’re in the U.S., it likely began with Thanksgiving and continues through the New Year. Amidst all the festivities, from family dinners to holiday parties, the season can bring a little anxiety about making the right food choices.

At Chaud Magazine, we want to share an important message about your health this holiday season. Diet culture has filled the air with guilt-inducing slogans and memes about eating during the holidays, but we’re here to tell you that indulging in holiday treats is perfectly healthy. Embrace the traditions and foods that bring you joy and make you feel good.

Now, I’m not saying to go overboard. Do what works for you, as always. But by “enjoying the season,” I don’t mean bingeing to the point of discomfort. You know what we mean.

Here’s what we *are* saying:

1. Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy: It’s completely okay to eat what you enjoy. The holidays are the perfect time to relax about food. If not now, when?

2. Weight Gain is Normal: A bit of weight gain over the holidays is natural. Don’t stress about it. Once the season passes and your routine returns, your body will return to its usual rhythm, and so will your weight.

3. Ignore Negative Comments: If a family member or “friend” judges your body or food choices, that’s on them, not you. It reflects their own issues, not yours.

4. Skip the Post-Holiday Cleanse: January 1st doesn’t require a drastic reset. The pressure to start a new diet or a 30-day challenge is real, but research shows that most people will regain any weight lost within 2-5 years. Instead of focusing on drastic changes, aim for long-term, sustainable habits.

5. Avoid Overeating: Try starting with smaller portions and only go back for seconds if you’re still hungry.

6. Don’t Try to “Save” Calories and Starve Yourself.: If you’re hungry before a holiday event, eat something light. This helps you make mindful choices at the party and prevents overeating from hunger.

7. Stay Active: Whether you’re socializing with guests or playing with kids, your body is staying active. You could take a walk after a big meal or even start a dance party with your family.

Happy Holidays!

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