“Come on, just one bite won’t hurt you!” I hear this all the time, especially during the holidays. But here’s the thing: even one small indulgence can leave me bloated, exhausted, and out of sync with my body. It’s not just about a bit of discomfort—it can set back my healing process, something I’ve worked hard to avoid.

When I was diagnosed with PCOS in 2011, I had no idea how to handle what was happening in my body. I tried countless diets throughout the year, but nothing would work. When the holidays came around, I’d give myself a much-needed break and indulge in all the sugary treats I knew would cause flare-ups. Why? Because I desperately craved sugar and really needed the mental break. On top of that, I’d get tired of being questioned and singled out by my family and friends. So, every holiday season, I accepted that bloating, discomfort, fatigue, and nausea would be part of it and convinced myself that I could handle it.

But here’s what I’ve learned: while sugar and indulgent foods can negatively impact my symptoms, they don’t have to ruin my holiday season or any other part of the year. By eating in ways that support my hormones and manage glucose levels, I’ve found ways to still enjoy the holidays without sacrificing my healing goals.

I’ve come to understand that it’s not about completely cutting out sweet treats—it’s about being mindful of what I put into my body and how I approach it, especially during the holidays.

How I Enjoy the Holiday Season & Avoid Glucose Spikes

To enjoy the season without the crashes, I focus on stabilizing my blood sugar with small, simple strategies that let me indulge in holiday foods without feeling drained.

• Ordered Eating: For holiday meals, I start with protein and fats, like turkey or cheese, then move to fiber-rich veggies before enjoying foods like mashed potatoes or desserts. Saving carbs and sweets for last helps me enjoy them while keeping my blood sugar stable.

• No Sugar on an Empty Stomach: During the holiday season, sugar is everywhere, but I try not to grab sweets like cookies or cake without preparing. Pairing them with protein, like a handful of nuts, or a healthy fat, like avocado, makes a huge difference in how I feel afterward.

• Vinegar Before Meals or Sweets: Before sitting down to a big holiday feast or indulging in seasonal treats, I drink a glass of water with a splash of apple cider vinegar. It’s a simple but effective step that helps balance glucose spikes.

• Snack Smart: I always try to keep a small snack in my purse—like trail mix or raw veggies. Having something on hand helps me avoid the temptation of grabbing processed or sugary foods when I’m out and makes me feel more prepared before indulging in something sweet.

• Stick to Whole Foods: I enjoy the seasonal indulgences (we all deserve to!), but focus on whole foods as much as possible, even during the holidays. Choosing homemade dishes over pre-packaged or overly processed options helps me feel my best.

• Movement After Meals: Whether it’s a short walk or a quick stretch session at home, moving for just 10 minutes after a big holiday meal makes a noticeable difference in how my body processes food and how I feel.

• Add Supportive Self-Care: Alongside these strategies, I’ve found incorporating self-care into my routine is a game-changer. A warm bath with Somedays Solace Soak helps me relax, ease inflammation, and unwind after a long day of holiday activities. Paired with a cup of Somedays Moodshine Tea, which is specially blended to reduce stress and promote hormonal balance, I can truly feel more grounded and prepared for the season’s challenges.

Making these simple changes has transformed how I experience the holiday season. By focusing on stabilizing my blood sugar and prioritizing my well-being, I’m able to indulge in the foods I love without the energy crashes or mood swings that used to follow. I feel more balanced, energized, and present, allowing me to fully enjoy the festivities without sacrificing my well-being.

Remembering to Make Space for Joy and Connection

Navigating the holiday season with PCOS isn’t always easy, but it’s a chance to honor what my body needs while still soaking in all the magic this time of year brings. I’ve learned that it’s okay to set boundaries, make adjustments, and speak up for myself—even when it feels hard.

The holidays are about so much more than the food or traditions—they’re about connection, joy, and showing up for ourselves in a way that feels good. By using the tools that work for me, I’m able to create a season that feels balanced and meaningful.

If you’re navigating something similar, just know you’re not alone. You’ve got this, and I’m rooting for you to have a holiday season that feels peaceful, nourishing, and full of love.

Shalize is a passionate advocate for women’s health, sharing her personal journey through PCOS, infertility, and self-discovery on her platform @misstomadame.c. Through her insights and experiences, she aims to inspire others to embrace a toxin-free, conscious lifestyle that supports holistic healing.

Follow Shalize on Instagram to stay updated on her journey as she navigates the complexities of infertility and works towards healing from PCOS.