How to Manage Food Anxiety on Vacation

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Christmas can be a time of bonding, fun and relaxation. However, it can also present unique challenges – especially for those who suffer from food anxiety, weight concerns, or depression. eating disorder.

There are many reasons why the holidays can be especially difficult for people struggling with eating disorders. Holidays often enhance the feeling such as anxiety, stress, isolation, and sadness.

Therefore, some people may turn to food for comfort and solace. Living in a house because of celebrations or because of the cold can also lead to overeating and worsening disordered eating.

Another issue is that there are many health and nutrition messages throughout the year telling us what to do he should not eat. However, during the holiday season, advertisements and social media often encourage excessive drinking.

This can make people feel more confused about food—or even make them feel guilty about participating in a celebration. Added to this are social pressures—not wanting to say “no” to invitations that may involve eating and drinking more than usual.

For people with an eating disorder, the holiday season can be like a minefield. Christmas celebrations are often centered on large, communal meals and encouragement to celebrate. This can cause difficult and sometimes painfulwhich causes some to avoid family gatherings and socializing.

Eating disorders often involve eating habits all the time. For those with an eating disorder, eating in public can cause anxiety and fear or panic feeling overwhelmed by focusing on food.

The festive season can be especially stressful for those who are dealing with eating disorders and financial worries. During the festive season, stores and advertisements tempt us with expensive, fancy foods.

For those dealing with financial worries, the added pressure to spend at Christmas can be stressful feeling inadequate and ashamed.

Although this time of year can be difficult to navigate, if you are someone who is struggling with eating disorders or weight gain and food anxiety, there are a few strategies you can use to get through it.

Avoid Feast and Famine

The new year often brings with it the pressure to end the holiday festivities—leading many to consider binge eating. However, overeating can be harmful to both physical and mental health.

Instead of falling into the trap of “feast or starve” during the holidays, try to find ways to combine cravings with healthy habits. Instead of eating an impressive dessert right after your meal, try going for a walk with a friend or family. The passion may have died on the way back.