The holidays are a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and celebration. But they can also bring stress for anyone working on their health goals. Between parties, travel, and endless trays of holiday treats, staying on track can feel impossible.

At Refills, we believe that looking and feeling your best during the holidays doesn’t mean giving up joy. It means finding balance, confidence, and tools that work for you. Whether you’re using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic® or Zepbound™, or simply focusing on healthier habits, here are ways to enjoy the season without losing sight of your goals.

Set Realistic Expectations

The holidays aren’t the time to aim for perfection. Instead of focusing on strict dieting, set achievable intentions:

• Maintain your progress instead of striving for major weight loss.
• Choose balance over restriction — enjoy your favorite holiday dish, but in moderation.
• Prioritize how you feel, not just what the scale says.

By adjusting expectations, you can avoid the “all-or-nothing” mindset that often leads to frustration.

Lean on the Support of GLP-1 Medications

For patients prescribed Ozempic, Zepbound, or other GLP-1s through Refills, the holiday season feels different. Because these medications help reduce appetite and control cravings, many patients find it easier to:

• Enjoy smaller portions without feeling deprived.
• Pass on second helpings they don’t truly want.
• Stay in tune with their body’s natural hunger signals.

This built-in support can make holiday gatherings far less overwhelming.

Plan Ahead for Social Events

Whether it’s an office party, family dinner, or New Year’s Eve celebration, preparation helps. A few simple strategies include:

• Eat a balanced snack beforehand. Going in overly hungry increases the temptation to overindulge.
• Scan the table first. Pick the items you’ll truly enjoy, and skip the ones you won’t miss.
• Stay hydrated. Thirst often disguises itself as hunger.

Patients often share that planning ahead makes them feel more confident and in control — especially when combined with the appetite-regulating benefits of their prescription.

Focus on Movement and Energy

Looking your best isn’t just about food choices — it’s also about how you feel in your body. Staying active can keep energy high through the busy season:

• Take short walks after big meals.
• Schedule family activities that involve movement, like ice skating or holiday light tours.
• Even small bursts of activity help counter holiday fatigue.

Many Refills patients report that as the weight begins to come off, these activities become more enjoyable and easier to maintain.

Dress for Confidence

Part of feeling your best is how you show up to events. Celebrate your progress by wearing outfits that make you feel confident. For some, that means trying on smaller sizes. For others, it simply means finding styles that highlight their best features.

Remember — confidence is contagious. When you feel good in your skin, it shows.

Keep Perspective

The holidays only come once a year, and food is just one part of the celebration. Patients often share that after starting GLP-1 treatment with Refills, they’re better able to focus on the bigger picture: time with loved ones, making memories, and enjoying experiences without the constant stress of overeating.

As one patient put it: “This year I finally enjoyed the holidays without guilt. I ate what I wanted, but I didn’t feel controlled by it. That’s a gift in itself.”

Final Thoughts

This holiday season, remember that looking and feeling your best isn’t about being perfect — it’s about balance, confidence, and enjoying life without losing sight of your health goals.

Whether you’re just beginning your journey with Refills or already seeing progress with Ozempic or Zepbound, know that you have the tools and support to navigate the season with ease.

After all, the best gift you can give yourself is the confidence to show up fully and joyfully — for the holidays and beyond.