December is Universal Human Rights Month, a time to recognise that every person deserves safety, dignity, and equal access to the foundations of a healthy life. And while human rights often bring to mind global issues, this month also invites us to reflect on something much closer to home: our right to wellbeing.
For those of us over 40, this theme feels especially relevant. Our bodies change, our needs shift, and yet the world around us often pushes a narrative of decline, exhaustion, and acceptance of poor health as “normal”. But good health is not a luxury, nor is it an afterthought we should squeeze in when life allows. Good health is a right — and that includes the right to nourishing food, balanced hormones, emotional stability, energy, and the ability to thrive at any age.
What Does Health as a Human Right Mean for You?
It means you are entitled to:
1. Accessible, reliable nutritional knowledge
Not fad diets, confusion, or conflicting advice — but simple, evidence-based guidance that supports your changing body.
2. Foods that nourish, not deplete
Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, but that doesn’t mean they should be the default. You have the right to understand how nutrition affects mood, hormones and long-term wellbeing, especially during midlife.
3. A lifestyle that reduces stress rather than compounds it
Chronic stress erodes mental health, gut health, immunity and metabolic balance. You deserve tools that help you manage it, not just endure it.
4. Support, not judgement
Too many people over 40 are told to “just get on with it”. But health challenges deserve compassion and proper guidance.
How December Can Be a Turning Point
December is traditionally the most demanding month of the year — socially, emotionally, and physically. But within Universal Human Rights Month lies an unexpected opportunity: to give yourself permission to honour your needs, your health, and your body.
Ask yourself:
- Are you eating in a way that supports your energy and mood, or in a way that drains you?
- Are your December habits aligned with the health you want in January?
- Are you giving your body the right to rest, or pushing past your limits?
- Are you nourishing yourself? Hydrating? Taking breaks? Eating real food?
- Are you having conversations about your wellbeing, or holding everything in?
Honouring Your Health Is Not Selfish — It’s a Right
This month, instead of waiting for January to begin “being healthy again”, start by protecting your non-negotiables:
- Prioritise whole foods whenever possible
- Keep protein and healthy fats steady to manage glucose and cravings
- Stay hydrated, especially in heated indoor air
- Move daily in a way that feels supportive, not punishing
- Protect your boundaries around rest and overwhelm
When you care for your health, you are exercising your human right — one meal, one decision, one small act of self-respect at a time.
If You Need Help, You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Your health journey matters, and you deserve personalised support rooted in respect, understanding and science.
Warmly,
Milvia Pili, FNTP
Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner
