What’s really going on in your body this season:

Colorful lights and watching Hallmark shows are two of my favorite things about the holidays.

Indulgent foods, disrupted routines, late nights, extra imbibing (gin advent calendar, anyone?), and the added stress and emotional overload that come along with the magical holidays are not my favorite things.

The effects of these are very real: bloating, inflammation, low energy, sluggish digestion, crappy sleep, and a mood that rivals the Grinch.

To help you move through this season feeling steady instead of scattered, here’s a breakdown of the biggest holiday health disruptors AND the simple shifts that make a meaningful difference:

1. The Holiday Diet

The classic trio (sugar, salt, and bad fat) hits hard. Together, they can drive inflammation, spike cravings, and throw digestion off-balance.
TiP: Choose your treats and enjoy them after a balanced meal of protein, fat and carbs.

2. Circadian Rhythm Disruption

Late nights, travel, and schedule shifts impact hormone balance and your microbiome… the very systems that regulate energy, appetite, mood, and metabolism.
TiP: Go outside and get sunlight in your eyes (without sunglasses) as soon as you wake up. Sunlight helps reset your circadian rhythm.

3. Alcohol

Even moderate alcohol intake triggers a cascade of effects: slowed digestion, poorer sleep, blood sugar instability, and an overtaxed liver.
TiP: Pre-hydrated with a glass of water, plus one glass of water between each drink. Change out one drink per night to a club soda or mocktail. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

4. Irregular Eating Patterns

When meals become unpredictable, your gut microbes struggle to do their job.
TiP: Consistency is key for energy, digestion, and hormone harmony. Breakfast and lunch are typically the most controllable meals. Let these be your controlled meals. Focus on balancing protein, fat, and carbs.

5. Stress

Heightened stress impacts immunity, hormone balance, and digestive function … exactly why so many people feel “off” during this time of year.
TiP: Microbreaks have been proven to help lower cortisol levels. One thing I’ve implemented is a 1-minute jumping routine to help move the lymphatic system, find a little childish joy, and shake off the ick. Join me either on IG or FB.

These small practices support your gut, your hormones, your energy, and your mood — especially during seasons when imbalance is the norm.