It’s OK to Eat Christmas Treats — Just Don’t Go Full Homer Simpson 🍩🎅

Let’s be honest — Christmas in New Zealand is one of the best times of the year. Sun’s out, BBQs are firing, pavs are piled high, and someone’s always passing around the scorched almonds. And that’s exactly how it should be.

Here’s the truth: enjoying Christmas food doesn’t derail your fitness. What does is switching off completely, Homer Simpson-style — hands behind your head, loosening the belt, and deciding you’ll “start fresh in January.”

The key difference is mindset, not restriction. You can absolutely have the trifle, pavlova, and a beer. Eat because you want to enjoy the flavours and moments, not because you are on autopilot and think you can’t waste any scorched almonds and therefore must finish off the packet.

Think balance over blow-out.👉 Exercise when you can, even if it’s a quick swim, walk or kayak.👉 Keep your protein up and water handy.👉 Enjoy the food, savour it, and then move on.

The goal isn’t to survive Christmas — it’s to enjoy it without losing momentum. Your progress doesn’t vanish with a few mince pies, but it does fade when the “stuff it, I’ll start again second week of January” mindset takes over.

So, this Christmas, have your treats guilt-free. Just don’t go full Homer. Your future self will thank you for it.