Sweets and stress fuel holiday weight gain

Bariatric surgeon explains how stress can lead to higher scale numbers

(CHANDLER, Ariz. – Nov. 25, 2025) Thanksgiving is upon us, and this week millions of Americans will indulge  in a festive feast. But, during the holidays, experts say it’s not just what you are eating, but also how you are feeling, which can contribute to unwanted weight gain this time of year.

“It’s very common for people to overeat during the holidays for many reasons,” said Shawn Stevenson, DO, chief of bariatric and foregut surgery with Dignity Health in Arizona. “For some people, it’s not just that the food tastes good and they want to eat more of it. Holiday-related stress plays a huge role in some people’s relationship with food.”

Research shows nearly 41percent of Americans say their stress level increases during the holidays according to the American Psychological Association (APA). The holidays, while intended to be a joyful time, can be overwhelming for some people due to family dynamics, disrupted routines and food temptations. This can lead to the stress hormone, cortisol, to increase.

“When cortisol levels spike, it can send a message to the brain to increase appetite,” said Dr. Stevenson. “This can lead people to opt for ‘comfort foods’ high in sugar which can provide temporary relief and comfort. But, over time this can have negative consequences and put you at risk of serious health complications if not addressed.”

Chronic stress can alter a person’s metabolism making the body less efficient at burning fat. With this build up, a person’s body can become more resistant to insulin making it harder to lose weight and putting them at a greater risk of developing diabetes, type 2 diabetes or other serious health problems. 

“It’s important to understand the reason behind weight gain as it gives a person the opportunity to address the problem directly and take steps to lose weight with proper support and healthy tactics,” said Dr. Stevenson.

Some tips to decrease stress and maintain healthy eating habits during the holidays include:

• Manage your stress through self-care, adequate sleep and regular exercise.

• Maintain your routine and stick to your typical meal schedule to avoid extreme hunger or overeating.

• Be strategic and eat a snack before holiday gatherings and stay hydrated to not overindulge.

• Connect with your friends and family while embracing accountability for those who want to support you on your weight loss or management journey.

• Consult with a doctor, such as a bariatric provider, if you experience excessive weight gain to develop an individualized plan of which may include a diet plan, medicinal interventions or surgical options in severe cases.

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