Lifesum Study: U.S. Christmas Dinners Rank Among World's Least Nutritious

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Dec 15, 2025, 03:00 ET

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- American holiday tables are among the most indulgent. According to research from nutrition app Lifesum, the U.S. ranks just behind Britain for the most calorie-heavy Christmas dinner, with plates high in sugar, saturated fat, and oversized portions.

The study analysed traditional festive meals across the U.S. and Europe, examining calories, macronutrients, sugar, fibre, and essential vitamins, showing how holiday traditions affect nutrition and wellbeing.

The typical U.S. Christmas plate, featuring roast turkey, creamy sides, rich sauces, and sugary desserts, averages 3,600 calories, high in sugar and saturated fat, and low in fibre. Britain leads at 3,800 calories with similar concerns.

"There's a simple 'order-eating' trick most Americans miss," says Rebeka Bereczy, lead dietitian at Lifesum. "Eat vegetables and protein first to cut calorie intake by 10–20% while stabilising blood sugar. Fill half your plate with veggies, prioritise protein, stay hydrated, and savour dishes mindfully."

Healthier traditions emerge in the Czech Republic, with plates centred on fish, vegetables, and lighter desserts, averaging 2,200 calories, higher fibre, and balanced macronutrients. Poland and Sweden also favour lighter, nutrient-dense meals, proving it's possible to celebrate without overindulging.

Top 20 Christmas Dinners Nutritional Index

Ranking	Country	Avg Calories	Nutritional Index
1	Czech Republic	2,200	Balanced macros, high fibre, fish & vegetables, light desserts
2	Poland	2,300	Moderate sugar, fibre-rich sides, lean meats
3	Norway	2,400	Lean proteins, high vegetable intake, moderate carbs
4	Sweden	2,450	Fibre-rich grains, balanced dessert, seasonal veg
5	Finland	2,500	Light proteins, high vegetables, low added sugar
6	Denmark	2,550	Moderate sugar, fish-based dishes, balanced macros
7	Portugal	2,600	Lean proteins, seafood-focused, moderate desserts
8	Italy	2,650	Pasta-heavy, moderate sugar in desserts, fibre from vegetables
9	Spain	2,700	Lean meats, vegetables, moderate dessert intake
10	Switzerland	2,750	Cheese-heavy, moderate sugar, fibre from seasonal veg
11	Netherlands	2,800	Meat and potatoes focus, moderate sugar, low fibre
12	Belgium	2,850	Chocolate desserts, rich sauces, moderate vegetables
13	Austria	2,900	Rich meats, creamy sauces, sugar-heavy desserts
14	France	3,200	Butter-rich dishes, pastries, desserts high in sugar
15	Germany	3,400	Sausages, potato sides, sugar-laden desserts
16	Ireland	3,450	Rich meats, gravy-heavy, sugary desserts
17	Southern Spain	3,500	Rich meats, pastries, high sugar intake
18	Hungary	3,550	Meat-heavy, sweet desserts, moderate vegetable intake
19	United States	3,600	High sugar, creamy sauces, low fibre, oversized portions
20	United Kingdom	3,800	High sugar & saturated fat, low fibre & micronutrients, large portions