Are Australians Overindulging at Christmas?

AP Photo/Matthew Mead

A study published in the journal Nutrients has found December to be the month where Aussies consume the most foods and beverages.

Researchers from the University of South Australia analysed the seasonal dietary patterns of 358 Australian adults between 2019 to 2021.

It found that total energy intake (carbohydrates, fats, and alcohols) was higher in summer than in autumn, winter, and spring. Fruit intake was also higher in summer.

Most discretionary foods such as alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and savoury and sweet foods also peaked in December.

While a separate study found that people eat less when the weather in hot, and more when the weather is cold, the researchers found the peak in consumption during summer bucked this trend.

Instead, peak food and beverage consumption seen in December are likely due to the increased frequency of social gatherings during the holiday period, and that enjoying a special occasion is the most common reason for unhealthy snacking.

Meanwhile, researchers noted dietary patterns vary across the Northern hemisphere. Some studies have found energy intake is higher in winter in Spanish men, Japanese women, and U.S. women. But other studies show no seasonal differences in diet for adults from the Netherlands, Brazil, and the United States, which contradicts the previous findings.

What Does This Mean For Our Diets?

The UniSA study is the first of its kind to examine seasonal dietary patterns in Australians.

Lead author Rachel Curtis said in a media release that the study presents key opportunities for dietary interventions.

“The typical Aussie adult generally eats too much discretionary food and not enough foods from the five healthy food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and meat, and alternatives. And this is reflected in increasing numbers of overweight and obese people,” she said.

Overweight and obesity are a public health issue. As of 2022, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reported over a quarter of children and adolescents as living with overweight and obesity, which increases to 66 percent in adults aged 18 and over.

Obesity rates have remained steady in the adult population, and has started to plateau for children and adolescents following sustained rise over decades.

Cultural and social influences have been identified as key factors that affect our choice in diet.

“Extra indulgence is heightened in summer, and especially over the Christmas and festive season when people are relaxed and catching up with family and friends. This is when they tend to let down their guard and treat themselves more than usual,” Curtis added.

“By understanding diet changes over the year, we can help plan interventions for when we are most at risk of making unhealthy food choices.

“Our study shows that consuming approximately 570 additional kilojoules per day (136Cal/day) in December equates to about 0.5 kilograms of weight gain over the month. And while this may seem small, even a short period of extra indulgence can accumulate each year if not counteracted.”

Curtis has some suggestions on how Aussies can mindful of their dietary intake over the holiday season.

“A quick drink here, an extra party pie or mini quiche there … the numbers add up, so we need to be mindful of healthier alternatives. And swapping out a cracker for some veggie sticks and dip could be an easy option. Or choosing an iced water over a soft drink,” she said.

“No one wants to miss out on Christmas treats. But remember to be mindful of making healthier choices. It could save you a lot in the long run.”