Getting through Christmas with an ED

Getting through Christmas with an ED🎄

I always like to acknowledge on this page something which can be really hard for people over Christmas time. Eating disorders.

Presents are often the main star of Christmas, but with a close second comes FOOD. This can be the hardest time of year for someone who’s life revolves around a fear of food/negative relationship with food.

A couple of tips to help anyone with an ED this Christmas❤️

Use positive language- We often use language such as “last chance before my diet in the new year” or “I’ve put a stone on after that dinner”. Try to use positive and healthy language around yourself and others. Try saying things like “this food is really enjoyable” or “I feel so satisfied after that meal”. Change the narrative of food being enjoyable and not something that has negative consequences 🎄

Don’t put ALL the food out. Having lots of food out all day can be overwhelming and pressuring, often leading to binging and anxiety. Just bring little bits out each time, eat mindfully and slowly.

Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone is different at Christmas. Some eat more than others and that’s okay. Try not to watch what others consume this Christmas and focus on how you are feeling.

Be present. If you need to take some time out to have a minute and be present, do it. Christmas can be busy so look after yourself more than usual. Have a nap or take yourself out for a walk. Try not to get too overwhelmed and be mindful. This should help to ease your anxiety throughout the day.

Remember the set point theory. Our bodies know what to do, they’re the professionals. You’ll find over January your body will do its thing, and most likely go back to exactly how it was before Christmas. Starving ourselves only leads to binging so going back to eating the same as before Christmas is the best thing to do over January. Remember, one bad day doesn’t lead to weight gain.

And most importantly remember to enjoy Christmas. If you’re struggling this Christmas, I am sending you the biggest love. You’ve got this and I am proud of you 🎄✨❤️