Christmas Checklist for Managing Your Thyroid Health

Originally published on 1st December 2020
Last updated on 24th November 2023

Christmas is supposed to be fun for all, but for many with physical health conditions (and often mental health conditions too) it can feel extra stressful and difficult.

As well as my other Christmas-themed posts:

3 Ways To Make a Gluten-Free Guest Feel Welcome at Christmas

6 Tips For Enjoying The Festive Season with Hypothyroidism

Thyroid Patients: 6 New Year Resolutions You Should Make

I thought I’d create a checklist of sorts, that you can use to help look after your thyroid health and more, during this busy time of year.

You may wish to print this off and physically tick them once completed.

In The Run Up To Christmas:

• Are you prepared for any dietary restrictions? E.g. if you are eating at someone else’s house, do you need to take any specific foods or drinks with you?
• Are you pacing yourself? Plan tasks on a physical calendar or diary. E.g. present buying, card writing, catching up with friends and family. Ensure you have adequate time to complete them, scheduling in time to recuperate and rest also.
• Have you had your thyroid levels checked to make sure your dosage is still correct? Some of us need a slight increase in colder months and this can contribute to us feeling extra tired and achey.
• Can you order some of your gifts and grocery shopping online? This can save on energy.
• Are you wrapping up warm and being mindful about your body temperature?
• Have you scheduled in some rest days for both before and after Christmas Day? This can help to avoid thyroid flare ups.
• Have you made lists to help you remember through any brain fog? Lists of people to write cards to, gifts to buy, food to get for the big day or tasks that need doing etc.
• Are you eating nutritiously (whilst still enjoying the festive food and drink), so as to support your thyroid and immune health?
• For things you feel obliged to do (going to various social events for example), ask if it’s really worth your energy to go. Would your energy be better spent on something more meaningful?
• Are you taking supplements to support your immune system in these colder months? Decide whether the flu jab is something you want to get as well. Supplementing Vitamin D, C and B-complex can help support your immune system. No one wants to get sick over the holidays.
• Remember that you are not obliged to do anything that leaves you feeling overwhelmed or exhausted.
• Manage any seasonal stress by finding time for self-care and recuperation. Don’t spread yourself thinly. 

On The Day:

• Are you sharing tasks and responsibilities as much as possible? Delegate.
• Let go of tasks that really aren’t a priority. Ask yourself “Does this really need doing? Will it make a difference if I leave it?”
• Nap if you need to. Take breaks as and when you need to.
• Check in with yourself regularly. E.g. Are you making sure to stay hydrated or are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? What can you do to alleviate this?
• Make sure to remember to take your medications and supplements. It’s easy to forget when you’re busy!
• Stay away from energy suckers or people who make you feel worse. Limit time spent with these where possible.
• Find time to breathe. Even when I have family and friends staying at my house for Christmas, I will excuse myself for a while to get away and have some quiet if I need it. Usually, saying something like “I’m just going to sit upstairs for a bit and read” works well.

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

What would you add to this list?