Episode 20: Enjoy the Holidays Without Starting Over in January: 5 Strategies for Energy, Gut Health & Blood Sugar Stability

Do you ever feel like the entire month of December derails your energy, gut health, and nutrition habits? In this episode, Brigid shares 5 science-backed functional nutrition strategies to help you stay nourished without falling into the holiday overindulgence spiral. If you want to enjoy the season and protect your gut, blood sugar, and hormone health — this is your roadmap. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why holiday overeating isn’t “just calories” and how it impacts gut health How blood sugar, cravings, and inflammation shift after just a few days of indulgence Ingredient upgrades for nostalgic holiday treats The myth of “saving calories” — and what to do instead How alcohol affects sleep, cravings, and hormones A mindset framework for staying consistent without perfectionism or guilt Timestamps 00:00 — Why holiday eating often spirals & how to prevent it 02:45 — How food marketing and hyper-palatable foods hijack cravings 04:01 — The gut microbiome-inflammation-fatigue connection 04:45 — How to think about nutrition beyond calories 08:30 — Conscious indulgence & upgrading nostalgic traditions 13:08 — The problem with “saving calories” 13:55 — High-protein breakfasts & satiating meals for stable blood sugar 14:45 — Pre-party snacks that curb cravings 15:24 — Alcohol boundaries that protect sleep & hormones 17:38 — Self-compassion, consistency & avoiding the guilt spiral Next Steps & Resources If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who wants to feel energized, grounded, and healthy this holiday season — without restriction. Watch the full episode on YouTube Brigid’s Website Brigid’s Instagram Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe Join The Being Collective January Kickstarter