Feast Mode: Why We Overeat (and How to Enjoy It Anyway)

 The Gratitude Plate: Part Two

It’s that time again — stretchy pants, golden turkeys, and casseroles that somehow weigh more than your dog. 🦃 

Thanksgiving is on the horizon, and you know what that means: feast mode activated.

Now, before we start shaming ourselves for going back for seconds (or thirds), let’s talk about what’s really going on here. 

Because the truth is, your brain and body are wired for this.

🧠 Your Body Thinks It’s Still 10,000 B.C.

When the holiday spread appears, your brain doesn’t see “Aunt Linda’s sweet potato casserole.” 

It sees opportunity. 

Millennia ago, humans didn’t know when their next meal was coming, so our bodies evolved to store extra calories whenever food was plentiful.

So when you’re standing over a buffet line thinking, “I shouldn’t, but wow that pie looks good,” that’s not weakness. 

That’s biology whispering, “Winter is coming. Better stock up.”

The problem? We no longer need to chase mammoths to burn off those extra slices of pumpkin pie.

The star of the show

🍂 The Feast Psychology

Ever notice how the holidays turn into a license to eat? It’s not just about the food, it’s the ritual. 

The table is full, family’s gathered, and for a moment, life feels abundant. 

Eating becomes celebration. 

Comfort. Connection.

That’s why even people who aren’t big eaters find themselves piling their plates higher than usual. 

Food becomes a symbol of togetherness — and a little extra gravy feels like love.

The trick isn’t to fight that impulse. It’s to balance it.

it was great knowing you, Tom

🥧 The Joy-to-Guilt Ratio

We all know that post-holiday feeling — the sluggishness, the “why did I eat all that?” moment. 

But let’s be honest: the guilt often feels worse than the extra calories.

So here’s the truth bomb: you can absolutely indulge and stay mindful.

Try this:

Check your speed. It takes about 20 minutes for your body to register fullness. Slow down and chat between bites.

Pick your pleasures. Don’t waste stomach space on foods you don’t love. Save room for the showstoppers.

Stay hydrated. Half the time, “more pie” is just your body asking for water.

Mindful indulgence means you enjoy the food and avoid the regret hangover.

🍽️ Rethinking “Feast Mode”

Feast mode isn’t the enemy. It’s a celebration of abundance — and gratitude. The key is learning to participate without losing control.

That means:

Plan for it. If you know you’re going to indulge, make lighter choices earlier in the day.

Move a little. A short post-dinner walk can do wonders for digestion (and family bonding).

Let go of perfection. Food is meant to be enjoyed, not micromanaged.

ALL the trimmings

💬 Quick Q&A

Q: Why do I always feel hungrier around the holidays?

A: Blame your environment — food smells, social cues, and stress all boost appetite hormones like ghrelin. You’re not broken. You’re just human.

Q: Is it bad to “save up” calories for the big meal?

A: Actually, that can backfire. Skipping meals can slow your metabolism and make you overeat later. A balanced breakfast keeps your hunger hormones steady.

Q: How can I enjoy dessert without feeling guilty?

A: Simple — make it intentional. Sit down, savor it, and ditch the “I shouldn’t” thoughts. A slice of pie enjoyed mindfully does far less harm than one eaten in guilt.

🧡 The Bottom Line

Thanksgiving isn’t just about what’s on your plate. 

It’s about gratitude, connection, and comfort. 

Eat with awareness, laugh often, and remember: one day of indulgence won’t undo a year of progress.

After all, feast mode isn’t about excess — it’s about appreciation.

How do you plan to keep your cool when the feeding frenzy starts?

“Your Health Is Your Wealth.”