Coping with Food Anxiety at Christmas: You’re Not Alone

For many people, Christmas is a time to relax, eat, and celebrate. But for those living with food allergies, it can feel like walking through a minefield. Every meal, snack, and social event can bring new worries, and that’s completely understandable.

Food anxiety around Christmas is real, and you’re not alone in feeling it. Here’s how to navigate the festive season with a little more confidence, calm, and support.

1. Recognise that your anxiety is valid

It’s easy to dismiss your feelings or tell yourself you’re “overreacting.” But when your safety depends on what’s on your plate, being cautious isn’t overthinking, it’s responsible.
Acknowledging that helps you approach the season from a place of self-compassion rather than guilt.

2. Plan, prepare, and protect yourself

Preparation can turn anxiety into empowerment.

• Call ahead to restaurants or family events to ask about ingredients

• Bring your own safe dishes or snacks

• Keep your allergy medication close at all times

• Let someone you trust know how to help if a reaction happens

Having a plan gives you a sense of control and reassurance, especially in unpredictable situations.

3. Be open with friends and family

It can be uncomfortable explaining allergies to others, especially when people don’t fully understand how serious they can be.
Still, being honest about your needs helps others support you better. You can share a simple explanation like:

“Even small amounts of my allergen can make me very unwell, so I have to be really careful with what I eat.”

The people who care about you will want to help,  and often just need some gentle guidance.

4. Find small ways to manage the anxiety

When things feel overwhelming, try short grounding techniques to calm your body and mind:

• Take 3 slow, deep breaths before eating or entering a crowded space

• Step outside for a moment if you feel anxious

• Use positive affirmations like “I am prepared, and I am safe.”

You might also want to connect with others who understand, whether that’s in allergy communities online or through Creative Nature’s channels.

5. Focus on the joy, and the food you can enjoy

It’s easy to fixate on the “no” list, but Christmas is full of creative ways to say “yes” to delicious, safe food.

Celebrate what you can have, whether that’s allergen-safe mince pies, chocolate brownies, or your own unique twist on a festive dessert.

How about making your own Christmas treats with Creative Nature’s cake mixes? 

Click here for lots of allergen-safe Christmas recipe inspiration!

You are not alone

If you feel anxious around food this Christmas, remember: there’s a whole community who understands exactly how you feel. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough.

Creative Nature is here to make the festive season a little easier, a little safer, and a lot more joyful.

Explore our allergen-safe baking mixes and treats here,  because no one should have to miss out on Christmas magic.

Phoebe

View all posts by Phoebe