As the weather cools and the holiday lights come out, so do the rich meals, sugary treats, and festive drinks. For many of us, this season feels like a pendulum swing — from the salads, sunshine, and movement of summer straight into cozy comfort food and holiday indulgence. The question is: how do you enjoy it all and still feel good in your body come January?
When the Holidays Hit Your Gut
For so many people, the holidays can wreak havoc on their digestive system. Shifting from fresh, summery foods to heavier, processed meals can leave you feeling bloated, sluggish and just “off.” You might notice more heartburn, irregular digestion, or an uncomfortable tightness that comes from one too many sweets or cocktails. It’s not about guilting your way to better health; it’s about finding balance during the holidays. When your digestive system is stressed, the impact is felt throughout your whole body.
A Personal Note from Dr. Graves
January is notorious for this: patients come in after the holidays feeling like they’ve lost the healthy progress they made all year long. The truth is, you don’t have to choose between enjoying the season and maintaining your health. What I’ve found to work best — both personally and for my patients — is planning ahead. At the beginning of a gathering, I make sure to drink a couple of glasses of water before the meal and prioritize protein first. Charcuterie, turkey, or shrimp cocktail. Those proteins help stabilize blood sugar, curb cravings, and keep you from going all-in on the desserts.
And if you do overindulge? Don’t panic. A short 24-hour fast (or a fast-mimicking diet) after a weekend of rich food can help reset your metabolism and give your digestive system a rest — no deprivation required. Think of it as a gentle reset rather than punishment.
Supporting Digestion Through the Season
A few small shifts can make a big difference:
- Hydrate first. Drink a glass or two of water before meals to help digestion and prevent overeating.
- Prioritize protein and veggies. This balances your blood sugar and reduces cravings for sweets and starches.
- Try intermittent or short-term fasting. It can support metabolic health and give your gut time to recover.
- Don’t skip movement. Even a 15-minute walk after a big meal helps digestion and blood sugar balance.
- Let go of guilt. One meal won’t undo your health, but stress about it can.
Stay Balanced This Winter
This holiday season, focus on connection, warmth, and joy — not restriction. With a little intention, you can enjoy every bite and feel good in your body.
At Colorado Natural Medicine & Acupuncture, Dr. Adam Graves, ND, LAc, helps patients improve digestion, manage inflammation, and maintain health even during the holidays.
Want to know how functional medicine can help you feel great during the holiday season? New patients can schedule a free 15-minute consultation online or call (303) 688-6698 to get started.
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