Holiday Eating: Why Reading the Label Matters More Than Ever

Thanksgiving is behind us, which makes this the perfect moment to check in with yourself.

How is your body feeling? Tired? Bloated? Constipated? Headachy or nauseous?

Christmas is coming quickly and not just the shopping, parties, and family gatherings, but the food. ALL the food. From office cookies to every type of pie imaginable, it feels like everywhere you look something is sweet, creamy, buttery, or covered in sprinkles.

Did you know, most people are already dealing with fatigue, inflammation, bloating, weight gain, brain fog, poor sleep, or chronic conditions that are heavily influenced by what we eat.

The holidays can magnify all of that fast if we’re not paying attention.

This isn’t about restriction, it’s about awareness, intention, and making simple swaps that support your body.

I talk more about this in my new ebook, Read the Label.

My household has adopted the concept of reading the label when we are in the grocery stores. My kids already know I am going straight to turning the package around.

The Real Holiday Problem Isn’t Overeating,  It’s  The Hidden Ingredients

Many holiday foods aren’t just high in calories; they’re filled with ingredients that disrupt hormones, spike blood sugar, increase cravings, and leave you feeling exhausted or foggy.

Added Sugars , The Silent Killer

There are over 50 different names for added sugar! Wild, right? Manufacturers are creative, and all of it leads to the same outcome:

    •    blood-sugar spikes

    •    increased cravings

    •    feeling hungrier later, even right after eating

Don’t get me started on the seed oils. Many holiday foods are made with inflammatory seed oils that can leave you feeling swollen and sluggish.

Most store-bought baked goods contain Additives & Preservatives like gums, artificial flavors, and chemical preservatives. These add up fast and may contribute to bloating, digestive issues, headaches , and inflammation.

Then we have the holiday dips, canned items, premade mixes, and boxed dishes are often loaded with salt, leading to water retention, puffiness, fatigue and increased blood pressure.

Why does Reading the Label Matters

You’ll hear me say this often: Read the label. It changes everything.

When I started doing this, I even turned it into a game with my kids. We used the Yuka and Bobby Approved apps just to see what we were actually consuming — and let me tell you, it opened a can of worms.

You can be more mindful without feeling restricted.

The goal isn’t to avoid foods, it’s to choose what makes you feel good. Because no one wants to start the new year feeling inflamed, drained, and desperate for a detox.

If you wouldn’t cook with the ingredients at home, don’t buy it in the store or eat it at a party.

A few guiding principles:

    •    Focus on balance, not perfection.

Eat the cookie if you truly want the cookie! Just stay intentional and practice moderation.

    •    Choose treats with real ingredients.

Lately, I’ve been bringing my own homemade treats to events for myself and my kids. I don’t want them dealing with crashes or tummy upset. I swap white sugar for honey or coconut sugar, and use bananas or dates for natural sweetness. If kids can’t tell the difference… chances are adults won’t either!

    •    Listen to your body.

It will tell you the truth before your brain does.

Enjoy the season without sacrificing your health! The holidays should be fun and memorable. You deserve to feel energized, present, joyful, and fueled by food that helps you thrive, not just survive.

When you read labels and become mindful of what you’re putting into your body, you’re not being “extra.” You’re honoring your health, your mood, and your long-term wellbeing. And honestly, it’s bigger than you.  Your children and your family are watching. What better tradition than bringing a delicious dish made with better ingredients and passing down that recipe for generations to come. And honestly, that might be one of the best gifts you give yourself this season.