Staying balanced in December
As December arrives and the festivities begin in earnest, it becomes far too easy to slip into overindulgence. Christmas parties, mince pies, mulled wine… before you know it, you’re feeling as stuffed as the turkey by mid-month. While enjoying the season is important, feeling tired, bloated or run-down certainly isn’t part of the plan.
The good news? A handful of simple, nourishing habits can help you stay balanced throughout December. With a little foresight, the right foods and a supportive routine, you can enjoy every magical moment of the season — without the post-festive slump.
Below, I’m sharing my top nutrition and wellbeing tips to help you feel energised and resilient all winter long.
Start Your Day With Light and Fresh Air
Those dark mornings might tempt you into hibernation mode, but daylight — even weak winter daylight — is a powerful wellbeing tool.
Try to get outside for 10–20 minutes before noon. Light exposure:
Supports mood and reduces winter blues
Helps reset your sleep-wake cycle
Improves energy and focus through the day
If mornings are hectic, grab daylight at lunch instead. Every little helps when sunshine is in short supply.
Support Your Vitamin D Levels
Low vitamin D is common in the UK through winter and can leave you feeling tired, low in mood and more prone to winter colds.
A daily supplement of 2000 IU is recommended for most adults — but ideally, test to determine exactly what your body needs. A quick home-test kit costs around £30 and gives valuable insight into your winter wellbeing.
Be Kind to Your Adrenal Glands
December can be demanding — more social plans, more sugar, more late nights. All of this increases stress hormones.
Small tweaks can keep energy steady:
Keep caffeine to before midday
Alternate alcohol with sparkling water
Pair sweet treats with protein
Avoid long gaps between meals
Your adrenals will thank you for a little TLC.
Batch Cook for Ease and Energy
Nutritious food doesn’t need to be complicated — especially in a busy month. Batch cooking takes the pressure off and ensures there’s always something nourishing to hand.
Dinner and lunch ideas that last 2–3 days:
🥣 Root veg soups
🍛 Curry, chilli or tagines
🥗 Seasonal salads with grains and leafy greens
Not only do these save time — they often taste better the next day.
Add Protein to Every Plate
Protein:
✔ Keeps you fuller for longer
✔ Balances blood sugar
✔ Reduces sugar cravings
✔ Maintains energy through the day
Try including a quarter plate of protein from:
Greek yoghurt or cottage cheese
Eggs, fish and poultry
Nuts, seeds, tofu or beans
A balanced plate = a balanced mind.
Eat With the Seasons
Winter produce provides the nourishment our bodies naturally need:
Leeks & onions
Carrots & parsnips
Celery
Kale & cabbage
Yes… Brussels sprouts!
Packed with fibre, antioxidants and vitamins — these foods support immunity, digestion and warmth in cold weather.
Make Mealtimes Mindful
December brings enough hustle. Let meals be a mini reset.
Try to:
Put your phone down
Sit at a table
Chew slowly
Appreciate the flavours
Mindful eating improves digestion and prevents overeating — and gives you a moment of calm in a busy season.
You Deserve to Feel Good This December
Keeping yourself nourished doesn’t mean saying no to festive fun. It’s about making simple choices that support energy, mood and digestion — so you feel your best all season long.
✨ Enjoy daylight daily
✨ Eat regular, balanced meals
✨ Choose seasonal foods
✨ Supplement vitamin D
✨ Slow down and savour
Keep it simple, do what you can, and give your body the good-quality food and rhythm it deserves.
Wishing you a truly nourishing December! 🎄✨
About the author:
Jane McClenaghan is renowned for her down-to-earth, evidence-based approach to nutrition, making healthy eating practical and achievable for everyone.
With over 25 years of experience delivering group sessions for corporate clients and one-to-one consultations, she specialises in women’s health and has helped thousands of people transform their wellbeing through better nutrition.
As the author of two best-selling books and a familiar voice on local radio, Jane is passionate about translating the science of nutrition into real food on your plate and empowering others to make lasting, positive changes for their health.
Get in touch