Christmas is almost here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably enjoying the seasonal food, drinks, and socialising while soaking in the festive moments. And that’s exactly how it should be. But while January often gets all the attention for ‘new starts,’ December can actually be a powerful time to pause, reflect, and gently reset – without pressure or restriction. At the same time, this period can be stressful with so much to do, so it’s important to give yourself permission to slow down, prioritise what matters, and take small steps to support your wellbeing.

Right now, isn’t about overhauling your life or starting a strict diet. It’s about noticing how you feel, making a few small supportive changes where you can, and perhaps making a note of habits you’d like to revisit when you’re ready to embrace a new chapter in the new year.

We’re constantly bombarded with adverts promising rapid weight loss, endless energy, and instant results. While some diets may work in the short term, many simply aren’t sustainable. You may lose weight quickly, but as soon as you stop, the weight often creeps back on again.

As the comedian Totie Fields once said:
“I’ve been on a diet for two weeks and all I’ve lost is two weeks.”
A phrase many of my clients can relate to.

Why Slow, Sustainable Changes Matter

Healthy weight loss – and better health overall – is best approached gradually. Extreme restriction can actually work against you, as it may signal to the body that food is scarce. In response, metabolism can slow down, making long-term weight management more challenging rather than easier.

That’s why, instead of waiting for January and going all-in, now is a great time to lay some foundations – even if it’s just one or two small changes.

Foods to Be Mindful Of (Not Eliminate)

You don’t need to avoid these entirely, especially at Christmas, but being aware of them can help:

• Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pastries, pies, and desserts – enjoy them as treats rather than daily staples
• Foods high in sugar, which can cause blood sugar swings and fatigue
• Fried and heavily processed foods
• Alcohol – enjoyable, but easy to overconsume and adds extra strain on the liver

Foods to Focus On More Often

When you can, aim to include more of the following:

• Low-glycaemic foods to support balanced blood sugar
• Whole grains such as wholemeal bread, quinoa, buckwheat, and millet
• Plenty of colourful fruit and vegetables for fibre and nutrients
• Weight-supportive foods like onions, ginger, leafy greens, celery, apples, and pineapple
• Bitter foods such as chicory, fennel, and radicchio to support liver health
• A good source of protein with each meal to help keep you fuller for longer
• Adequate hydration – even mild dehydration can affect appetite and energy

Gentle Tips You Can Start Now

• Eat breakfast when you can – porridge or eggs with greens are simple, nourishing options
• Slow down when eating – it takes around 20 minutes for fullness signals to register
• Find a meal pattern that works for you – grazing or structured meals both work for different people
• Keep moving in ways you enjoy – walks, stretching, light workouts all count
• Start a food or mood journal, not for perfection, but for awareness

Supporting Menopause-Related Weight Changes

If you’re navigating menopause, you may notice weight gain around the middle that feels particularly stubborn. Hormonal changes, stress, sleep disruption, and insulin sensitivity can all play a role. This is where targeted nutritional support can be helpful.

Some women choose to include supplements such as Menobelly as part of their routine to support metabolic health and hormonal balance – not as a quick fix, but alongside nourishing food, movement, and self-care.

A Final Thought

You don’t need to wait for January to care for your health – and you don’t need to “be good” over Christmas either. A few small choices now, some gentle awareness, and a kind mindset can make January feel far less overwhelming when it arrives.

And when you’re ready, whether that’s now or in the new year, support is always available.

Ready to make your menopause journey smoother and more manageable?

As an experienced health coach and nutritionist, I specialise in helping women like you tackle menopause with practical, sustainable strategies. Whether your goal is weight management, reduced anxiety, fewer hot flashes, or less bloating, personalised support and accountability can make all the difference.

Book a FREE 15-minute call with me to discuss your unique needs and how I can help you feel your best during this stage of life. Let’s create a plan that works for you.

Support your menopause journey naturally

If you’re looking for extra help with weight management, Menobelly is designed to support metabolism, cortisol levels, and hormonal balance — helping your body work with you, not against you.

Try Menobelly today and take a gentle, natural step toward feeling your best during menopause.

Have a wonderful Christmas x