Episode summary

Cindy and Vicki have a cozy, “girlfriends around the table” chat about staying healthy during the holiday season—especially for widows navigating grief, stress, and extra emotional weight. They focus on small, realistic choices (not perfection) so you can enjoy traditions without getting knocked down by sugar crashes, low moods, and winter-time bugs.

• Sugar can hit harder than you expect. Vicki shares how too much sugar can lead to “the blues” the next day—and how that can spiral mentally if you’re not careful.
• Healthier baking swaps (without giving up the joy). Cindy talks about milling whole grains, using honey as a lower-glycemic sweetener, and choosing flours that don’t spike blood sugar like typical white flour.
• Keep traditions—just scale them down. If you normally make “10 kinds of cookies,” make nine. Take a walk. Make small changes that still feel festive.
• Portion the gifts. Instead of delivering a big plate of sweets, give a few per person (still pretty, still thoughtful). Same idea with candy—2–3 individually wrapped pieces can feel special without overdoing it.
• Don’t eat your cookie alone. Their practical rule: eat protein + vegetables (and fruit) first, then enjoy the treat—so your body handles it better.
• Widowhood + stress makes health more important, not less. They encourage widows—especially in the first few years—to prioritize basic nourishment and getting outside because stress can wear you down fast.

This episode isn’t about strict rules. It’s about choosing a little better than last year—one walk, one smaller batch, one balanced meal—so the season feels kinder to your body and mind.

They invite listeners to share your own “stay healthy during the holidays” tips: email questions@widowslife.com and connect on Facebook (A Widow’s Life).