Festive feasting can cause a great deal of anxiety for many people across the country, with a recent survey showing that more than a quarter of Britons enjoy Christmas less because they are worried about their weight.
The pressure may feel even more intense for those taking Mounjaro however, as dieters worry that indulging in festive food could derail their progress or leave them feeling unwell.
But experts at ZAVA have shared a strategy to help Mounjaro users enjoy their festive feast without the stress or guilt that often accompanies it.
Dr Crystal Wyllie, who works closely with the digital healthcare provider, recommends trying intermittent fasting before the big meal.
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Intermittent fasting before the big meal could prevent discomfort
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"We hate the idea of people on Mounjaro feeling excluded at the Christmas table. This season should be joyful, not spent worrying about every bite," she said.
The approach involves fasting for 16 hours and eating within an eight hour window, which is simpler than it sounds when timed properly.
If lunch is at midday, stop eating by 8pm on Christmas Eve. For a 1pm meal, finish by 9pm, and for 2pm meal, wrap up by 10pm.
This addresses 'meal stacking' - a common issue for Mounjaro users, where food stays in the stomach for longer. It also gives your digestive system a reset and helps it cope better with richer foods, stabilising blood sugar levels.
But even with a fasting strategy in place, how you eat your Christmas lunch matters.
"It's crucial not to rush through your meal," Dr Wyllie explained. "Eating slowly allows your body to register fullness more effectively, reducing the risk of discomfort or bloating at the end of the meal."
She suggests pausing between bites and listening to what your body is telling you, to help you feel satisfied rather than stuffed.
When it comes to food choices, fibre-rich vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, roasted carrots and green beans all support digestion.
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Meanwhile, it's worth going easy on heavier options like creamy sauces or generous portions of stuffing if they typically leave you feeling sluggish.
After the feast, resist the urge to collapse on the sofa straight away, as Dr Wyllie warns that lying down immediately slows digestion and increases the risk of acid reflux.
"Lying down immediately after a big meal is a no-no," she said. "When you lie flat or slouch in a reclined position, digestion slows, and the risk of [...] indigestion increases."
Instead, a gentle 10 to 15-minute stroll around the house or garden helps move food through your system and can regulate blood sugar levels.
'Pause between bites and listen to what your body is telling you'
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Simple stretches like standing side bends or reaching overhead can also ease abdominal pressure and boost circulation.
When it comes to drinks, water and unsweetened herbal teas are ideal. Peppermint and ginger help reduce bloating, while chamomile has calming properties that soothe post-meal discomfort.
One important warning though – steer clear of detox teas. Many contain strong laxatives that can irritate the digestive system, which is particularly problematic for Mounjaro users whose digestion is already more sensitive.
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