How to Stay on Track with Paleo During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is full of cheer, family gatherings, and, of course, lots of delicious food. However, if you’re following the Paleo diet, navigating through the holidays without derailing your eating habits can be a bit of a challenge. The abundance of sugar-laden treats, hearty casseroles, and various grain-based dishes at every turn can make sticking to your Paleo goals seem nearly impossible. But don’t fret! With some planning and these simple strategies, you can enjoy the holiday season while staying true to your Paleo lifestyle.
1. Plan Ahead
One of the keys to sticking with any dietary plan, especially during the holidays, is planning. If you know you’re attending a holiday party or dinner, offer to bring a Paleo-friendly dish to share. Not only does this ensure there will be something you can enjoy, but it also introduces others to the delicious possibilities of Paleo eating.
2. Focus on What You Can Eat
The Paleo diet emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods including meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Fortunately, many traditional holiday foods fall into these categories. Turkey, ham, roasted vegetables, and salads can all be enjoyed within Paleo guidelines. Instead of dwelling on the foods you should avoid, celebrate the abundance of Paleo-friendly options available.
3. Communicate with Hosts
If you’re not hosting the holiday gathering, have a chat with your host ahead of time. Explaining your dietary needs doesn’t mean you’re demanding they cater solely to your requirements, but you might be pleasantly surprised by their willingness to offer dishes that fit within your eating plan. Even simple adjustments like setting aside some vegetables before adding non-Paleo ingredients can make a big difference.
4. Be Mindful of Sneaky Ingredients
The holiday season can be a minefield of hidden non-Paleo ingredients. Many traditional dishes may appear Paleo-friendly but contain sugars, grains, or dairy. Be vigilant about dressings, sauces, and even some roasted nuts, which can often be coated in sugar or butter. If you’re unsure about the ingredients in a dish, don’t hesitate to ask the person who made it.
5. Bring Your Own Snacks
Holiday gatherings often last for hours, and it can be tempting to indulge in non-Paleo snacks simply because you’re hungry. To avoid this, bring your own Paleo-friendly snacks. Nuts, fruit, and vegetable sticks with guacamole or almond butter are great options that can help tide you over until the main meal.
6. Practice Portion Control
Even when sticking to Paleo-approved foods, it’s easy to overdo it during the holidays. Large portions, especially of nuts and dried fruits, can quickly add up in calories. Enjoy the festive meals but be mindful of serving sizes. This can help you avoid feeling too full and stay on track with your eating goals.
7. Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself
If you do indulge in some non-Paleo foods, don’t beat yourself up. The holiday season is a time of celebration, and it’s okay to enjoy special moments, even if they include foods outside your usual diet plan. One meal or snack won’t undo all your progress. Recognize the slip, and then return to your Paleo eating habits with your next meal.
8. Stay Hydrated
With all the excitement and busy schedules, it’s easy to forget about staying hydrated. However, drinking plenty of water is crucial, especially if you indulge in foods that are higher in sugar or salt than you’re used to. Water can also help curb your appetite, preventing you from reaching for snacks out of thirst rather than hunger.
9. Keep Active
Maintaining your exercise routine can also help you stay on track with your Paleo diet during the holidays. Physical activity not only helps offset any extra calories you might consume but also keeps you energized and focused on your health goals.
10. Enjoy the Season Beyond the Food
Finally, remember that the holiday season is about more than just food. Enjoy the time with your loved ones, participate in your favorite traditions, and take time to reflect on the year. Focusing on these aspects can help shift the emphasis away from food and onto the joy and spirit of the season.
Staying Paleo during the holiday season might require a bit of extra effort, but it’s certainly possible. Plan ahead, communicate your needs, and don’t forget to indulge in the happiness and camaraderie of the season. Happy holidays!