The holidays are upon us! For many of us, that means feasting with family and friends. But if you have dietary restrictions, the holidays can be a minefield. How do you manage your restrictions while still enjoying all the holiday foods you love? Here are some tips to help you navigate the holiday season with ease.
Plan Ahead
The first step is to plan ahead. Talk to your host about your dietary restrictions and see what accommodations can be made. Many traditional holiday dishes can be easily modified to fit your needs. For example, if you’re vegan, your host might be willing to make a vegan version of their green bean casserole. Or if you’re gluten-free, they might be open to using gluten-free flour in their pumpkin pie recipe. By planning ahead, you can ensure that there will be something on the table that you can enjoy.
Bring Your Own Dish
If you’re really worried about finding something to eat, another option is to bring your own dish. This way, you know there will be at least one thing at the holiday meal that you can eat without issue. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to share your favorite recipes with your loved ones! Who knows, maybe they’ll even ask for the recipe so they can make it themselves next year.
Focus on the Other Activities
Of course, the food is one of the best parts of any holiday gathering. But it’s not the only part. The holidays are also a time for watching favorite movies, playing games, and catching up with family and friends. So if you find yourself feeling left out because of your dietary restrictions, remember that there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Before you know it, the meal will be over and you’ll be able to join in on the fun without a second thought.
The holidays can be a tough time for those with dietary restrictions. But with a little planning and forethought, it is possible to enjoy this special time of year without worry or stress. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a happy and safe holiday season!