Whole Food Holidays — Without the Stress

The holidays are magical, cozy, joyful… and also a total circus for anyone who cares about eating real food. You want to feel good in your body and enjoy the season — not survive December living on salad while everyone else attacks the dessert table.

I have good news! You absolutely can stay true to your whole-food lifestyle and have a really good time. Here’s how to make it easy, intentional, and actually enjoyable.

1. Tell People What You Need (No Apologies)

Before the big gathering, give your family a heads-up. Something simple like: “I’m eating mostly whole foods right now, so I’ll bring something yummy to share!” Or, “I have some food sensitivities, so I’ll bring a few things, too!”

This sets expectations, avoids awkward moments, and keeps you from quietly picking at iceberg lettuce like a sad bunny in the corner.

2. Hydrate Like a Grown-Up

Water is your holiday bestie. Drink it. Often. It keeps you from confusing thirst with hunger, steadies your energy, and helps you enjoy that glass of wine or extra sugar without feeling like a dehydrated raisin later.

3. Bring Your Own Deliciousness

Showing up with a couple of your favorite whole-food dishes is basically a holiday superpower. You get food that supports your body and you get to gently convert your family with something surprisingly delicious. Win-win.

4. Fill Your Plate with Foods That Love You Back

When it’s time to eat, gravitate toward the whole-food options available: veggies, proteins, salads, roasted things that didn’t come from a box. Skip the stuff that makes you feel like garbage tomorrow. You’re not being “difficult” — you’re honoring your body. Big difference.

5. Expect Temptations (You’re Human)

Holiday tables can feel like a sugary obstacle course. If you know certain foods will call your name, have a satisfying snack before you go or make a super delicious treat for when you get home. A little preparation = fewer “ah screw it” moments.

6. Slow Down & Actually Taste Your Food

Holiday chaos can lead to inhaling food without remembering what you ate. Take a breath. Enjoy your bites. Let your body register fullness so you don’t end the night feeling like a stuffed turkey.

7. Don’t Do It Alone

If you have a cousin, sibling, or in-law who's also into real food, team up. Swap recipes, cheer each other on, and create a tiny island of sanity in a sea of marshmallow-topped casseroles.

8. Remember: You Came for the People

Truly. The holidays are about connection — laughing, talking, playing games, hugging your people. When you focus on them instead of the food table, everything feels easier.

9. Flexibility Is Not Failure

If someone made a special family recipe and it means something to them — or to you — and you want some? Have it. Enjoy it. One meal won’t derail your lifestyle. Your body knows the difference between a choice and a pattern.

10. Reflect Instead of Regret

When the season wraps up, check in with yourself. What worked? What didn’t? Use that info so next year feels even smoother, easier, and more aligned.

You get to enjoy the holiday season and feel good in your body. With a little intention and a lot of self-compassion, you can do both — gracefully, joyfully, and without turning into the food police.

Happy whole-food holidays, friend!

Need a little more support? I’ve got you!

Indulge without compromise this holiday season! Grab your copy of the Real Food Holiday Cookbook today!

Enjoy festive drinks, wholesome appetizers, beautiful sides, nourishing mains, and mouthwatering desserts that will satisfy your sweet tooth!

Make eating healthy easy this season with your collection of 48 whole-food recipes created to keep you healthy and happy!