Hosting with heart: A guide to thoughtful Christmas hosting for loved ones on a medical weight loss journey

Here are some thoughtful tips from qualified health and nutrition coach, Kirsten Davies, to make your celebrations more relaxed, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone.

12 tips of Christmas for changing up celebrations this year to be suitable for those on a medical weight loss journey:

1. Focus on connection, not consumption

Take food out from the central point and remind yourself that the heart of the holidays is time together not what or how much people eat. Keep the focus on conversation, laughter and shared moments.

2. Offer variety without pressure

Provide a mix of lighter and richer dishes, so guests can choose what suits them. Avoid comments like “Go on, have seconds!” as they can feel uncomfortable for someone whose appetite has changed.

3. Space out courses

A long, chatty pause between dishes gives everyone time to relax and for those with slower digestion, it’s much more comfortable.

4. Let guests serve themselves when possible

It takes away any pressure to “finish what’s on the plate” and allows people to listen to their hunger cues.

5. Avoid food commentary

Skip remarks like “You’ve hardly eaten anything!” or “Are you still on that medication?” "you used to love this" "should you be eating/drinking that" even well-intentioned questions can put someone on the spot and make them feel embarrassed.

6. Offer non-food ways to celebrate

Games, walks, music, or gift exchanges can keep the day joyful without revolving solely around eating and drinking.

7. Keep drinks balanced

Keep the celebrations balanced by offering plenty of non-alcoholic options. Try sparkling water, kombucha, or alcohol free cocktails between festive drinks to help everyone feel good all day. Some people on a medical weight loss journey may prefer not to drink alcohol, so offering mocktails, sparkling waters, or herbal teas helps everyone feel included without any fuss.

8. Check in privately, not publicly

If you’re unsure how to accommodate someone, ask them quietly beforehand. Some people may not want everyone to know they are on a medicated weight loss journey.

9. A little bit goes a long way

A little bit of what you love can go a long way as no food needs to be off-limits. The goal isn’t to make celebrations “diet friendly,” but to keep them flexible and inclusive. If someone prefers a smaller portion or skips dessert, that’s perfectly okay, no comments needed. Food should bring people together, not create pressure or guilt.

10. Add movement into the day

A short winter walk, dancing in the kitchen, or a game outside can be a lovely break between meals and helps everyone feel more energised.

11. Keep the conversation body neutral

Steer clear of “good” or “bad” food talk and any diet chat at all. Christmas is not the time for body commentary ever.

12. Ask, don’t assume

A quick “Is there anything you’d prefer or need?” shows thoughtfulness without making food the focus. Everyone’s experience on a medical weight loss journey is different.

As a host, you set the tone for the day. When you’re calm, unhurried, and positive everyone else feels it too. Remember that kindness is the main ingredient and thoughtful hosting isn’t about the perfect food or planning.

Focus the day on making every guest feel comfortable, respected and part of the celebration. When the focus stays on connection and care, everyone leaves the table feeling nourished in all the best ways.

Kirsten Davies is a qualified health and nutrition coach working with Chequp, where she supports people on a medical weight loss journey with practical, realistic lifestyle strategies. With a warm and non judgemental approach, Kirsten helps individuals and their hosts navigate food, portions and social occasions in a way that supports health goals while still making space for joy, connection and celebration.