Keto can be hard for some, and even harder during the holidays. All the stuffing, mashed potatoes, rolls, and pies don’t help one bit especially if you are like me and get easily tempted. I wish I could say it was easy to stay on track but I’ll be honest, it’s most definitely not. Unlike others, I truly believe sometimes it’s totally okay to splurge a bit!
With the Keto diet, I personally limit myself to 10-15 carbs a day maximum. Since starting the Keto Diet, I have learned how my body works and what I have to limit in order to keep myself in Ketosis. Others may be able to eat closer to 20 net carbs, but for me I keep mine as low as possible. During the holidays, we often get invited to gatherings, parties, and dinners. I have never been one to completely go crazy over the rich and carby foods but a dinner roll and mashed potatoes is hard to pass up. So here are my tips and tricks for surviving the holidays without feeling like your missing out.
Travel with Keto Snacks.
Traveling with keto snacks ready to grab is so important during holiday travel. I love Keto Krate because they send a variety of keto snacks for me to try and all are keto friendly so I don’t have to worry. It’s great for in the car while on the way or even through ig in your purse for thanksgiving dessert. Check out Keto Krate here.
Premake your sides and dessert before heading to Thanksgiving dinner.
Don’t be ashamed of staying on track while still enjoying family time and dinner. Here is a list of easy and tasty substitutes for some favorites on turkey day.
Mashed potatoes/rice/stuffing- Substitute with rice or mashed cauliflower
Roasted potatoes- Roasted radishes
Noodles- Zucchini or low carb noodles
French fries- Turnips
Bread crumbs- seasoned almond flour/pork rinds
Chips, crackers, and popcorn- pork rinds, cheese chips, low carb vegetables
Sugary desserts- sugar free pudding, keto cheesecake, low carb ice cream
Drink 8oz of water before your family begins to feast.
Drinking water will help you feel more full and prevent you from over indulging. You can also drink more throughout dinner to help you resist grabbing that extra bread roll(or two).
Limit yourself to one plate.
Sometimes sticking to only having one plate while others are getting seconds and thirds is hard. Trust me, I know. But normally we aren’t even sure if we are really still hungry when we go back for seconds. Take a few moments after you finish, drink some water, and see if you really are still hungry or just wanting to eat.
Don’t drown in “drink carbs”.
Carbs from sugary and alcoholic drinks can add up really fast. Drink water, bring your own drink mix, and opt for vodka soda or low carb beer.
Most of all, just relax and enjoy your day! Even if you over indulge, it is just one day! Enjoy yummy food and get back on track the next day. Even though depending on if you are like me and gain water weight, one day will not make you gain anything crazy. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Xoxo
Christian Mulkey
Memories With The Mulkeys 