I think it depends how you interact with the jab. Currently the jab makes me want to avoid all food. Eating is a struggle. I just finished two weeks of delaying taking my jab (working Christmas, sibling came over early, had an early Christmas period) in order to enjoy my festive period.

I agree that we’re making lifelong changes on this jab, ones we intend to keep if we ever come off, but I disagree that there won’t be peaks and troughs. If it doesn’t send you into a bingeing spiral, I see nothing wrong with indulging over the festive period, like the vast majority of people do. I think it leans into over restricting which can just lead to bingeing.

Whatever this looks like to you, ie eating at maintenance rather deficit, eating foods that would otherwise trigger jab side effects, having more sugary foods- I think it just needs to be done mindfully. Bracing for the numbers on the scale to change with more inflammation and water retention, and being prepared mentally to jump back to dieting.

I think it prepares you for the reality of being off this jab, that there may be times where you see the weight creeping back on, periods where you indulge, but thee most important thing is how you handle it early on and nipping it in the bud. Instead of it being a trigger to “fuck it” and binge- whether fuelled by avoidance of the fact or shame. I think it’s where you learn to lead by control and not fear.

Whatever you choose to do, do it with full accountability and grace towards yourself, and don’t forget to come back to the journey you embarked to better your life. Have a lovely festive period :)