GET THE PARTY STARTED!
Hello my friends! Not surprisingly another holiday weekend is upon us and for many of us that can be maneuvering our way through social gatherings and food events that are not within our usual routines. I wanted to share some thoughts on getting yourself through if it is a concern! Luckily, the 4th of July and summer BBQ season can be the easiest season to find simple keto options but when you face overladen buffet tables and comforting traditions there can be challenges. So quicker than a firecracker goes boom, let’s dive into it! Here is my strategy for maintaining your food “independence!”
Set Your Plan
Plain and simple, give the weekend some thought. Will you be sticking to your food plan or enjoying a planned deviation? This choice is yours and you should feel empowered to make it. Planning ahead maintains your sense of security and control in situations that might feel a bit chaotic. Be conscious of your goals, how you’re feeling emotionally, and what your body needs.
Come Prepared
The grill is pretty easy to navigate as there are often burgers, steaks, chicken and sausages on the menu. The minefield can be the side dish options! So if you are not going carnivore and aren’t sure what options you might find it can be good to be proactive and offer to bring something! Make a big salad, a cauliflower “faux” potato salad, grilled vegetables or a spicy guacamole as some ideas. If you’re looking for a simple dessert style option, blueberries and strawberries with whipped cream can be a great option that stick with the holiday’s red, white and blue theme! If chips and dips are your nemesis, bring some pork rinds or cut up veggies to have in your corner.
Have A Goal That Isn’t About Food
Will you be seeing friends and family you haven’t seen in a while or been able to spend some time with? Set a personal goal to connect with someone or partake in a physical activity you’re looking forward to. Giving yourself something to focus on besides food can be incredibly helpful. Especially if the cravings hit!
Navigate the Food Table
Like I said above the choices can be keto friendly at most BBQs as long as you get a lay of the land and know what’s going on. Make a decision before you get overwhelmed as to what your choices will be and what are the things that will not be on your personal menu that day. It can be good to set some guidelines for yourself around quantities and “trips to the table.” Don’t stress “missing out” but focus on what you will be enjoying that day!
Be Mindful
Practicing mindfulness with food is such an important habit on everyone’s journey to health so don’t forget that just because it is a holiday. Remember that asking yourself “Why am I eating this?” And honestly answering that question goes a long way towards keeping you connected to your choices and helps prevent disconnection that many of us can feel in those environments.
Dodge the Fireworks
You will hear a lot of people on social media preaching that “It’s just one holiday, don’t worry about your diet!” this weekend. For some people this is fine, but for individuals that struggle with food addiction or a challenging relationship with food this just doesn’t work. So be conscious of the “fireworks” you might face. These can be foods the foods that get so big and bright in your head that they distract you from the goals you have in place for the day and in general. For example, if sweets are your challenge, don’t even waste time perusing the options! Figure out where they are and steer clear. If this keeps you safe and feeling in control, do it! Don’t worry about the person who says “Just have a bite” if you know that it won’t just be a bite. What you need for you, is for you, not them.
Raise Your Glass
And lastly, a reminder to stay hydrated!!! A fun active day in the sun can definitely wear us down and staying properly hydrated keeps us alert and engaged. It’s a simple reminder but one I need to send to clients a lot when I hear “I forgot to drink water today!” So bring your water bottle, some sparkling waters, or even a pitcher of water with some citrus slices in it for a refreshing treat!
I hope that you have an awesome weekend if you are celebrating and remember that a little bit of planning goes a long way when you want to stay on track with your goals. Let me know how it goes or any ideas you have for great keto BBQ options you’ll be enjoying this summer!
