Summary: A new national survey reveals that 39% of Americans worry about holiday eating, but dietitians say occasional indulgence isn’t cause for concern. The research shows many people resort to counterproductive measures like meal skipping and post-holiday cleanses, which can be more harmful than the holiday treats themselves.
Journal: Orlando Health Survey, October 4-6, 2024 | Reading time: 4 minutes
The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and for many Americans, a hefty serving of food-related anxiety. According to a recent national survey by Orlando Health, this anxiety might be doing more harm than the occasional slice of pumpkin pie.
The Reality of Holiday Indulgence
Nearly two in five Americans (39%) worry about their holiday eating habits, but health experts suggest this concern may be overblown. “Holidays come around once a year, and indulging in a few traditional foods and favorite recipes that may have a little extra sugar or fat is not going to affect your health or derail your healthy habits,” says Sara Riehm, registered dietitian at the Orlando Health Center for Health Improvement.
In fact, Riehm notes that she observes “a lot more anxiety about weight gain than actual weight gain from my patients around the holidays.”
Common Misconceptions and Their Risks
The survey revealed several concerning trends in how people approach holiday eating. Rather than promoting health, these common practices might be causing more harm than good.
- 25% of respondents believe in skipping meals to “save calories” before holiday gatherings
- 33% feel they need to “detox” or “cleanse” after the holidays
These approaches can backfire. As Riehm explains, “It’s a lot easier to make healthier decisions when we’re not hungry. Having a light meal that includes satiating nutrients like protein and fiber before a party will help you feel fuller and make mindful choices about what you’re eating.”
The Truth About Detoxing
The concept of post-holiday detoxing is particularly problematic. “We can’t really detox the body from the so-called ‘toxins’ that we’re getting from our food,” Riehm states. “The liver and the kidneys do a great job of removing toxins from the body already, and they don’t really need our help with juices and other marketed supplements.”
Such cleanses can disrupt healthy gut bacteria and cause dangerous blood sugar drops, making them more harmful than helpful.
Glossary of Terms
- Microbiome: The community of beneficial bacteria in your digestive system
- Medical nutrition therapy: Professional dietary guidance in healthcare settings
- Registered dietitian: A certified nutrition professional with clinical training
- Blood sugar: The amount of glucose present in your blood
Test Your Knowledge
- What percentage of Americans worry about holiday eating?
- Why is skipping meals before holiday gatherings not recommended?
- What percentage of people believe they need to “detox” after the holidays?
- According to the expert, what organs naturally remove toxins from the body?
Answers:
- 39%
- It can lead to overeating later when hungry
- 33%
- The liver and kidneys
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