Memorial Day Survival Guide

I love those middle months where spring turns into summer.

The climate changing, bringing in a slightly warmer breeze; farmers markets in full swing; the smell of the grill getting fired up regardless of the day or time.

This is why Memorial Day is one of my favorite holidays.

I love Memorial Day (and summertime in general) because of all the great “summer foods”. Between grilled burgers and meat to fresh fruits, veggies and salads, it is all about what is fresh. I love getting together with a group of friends, playing a friendly game or two of sand volleyball, and grilling up our favorite meats and veggies. Everyone can bring his or her own meat and drink of choice and a side dish to share.

This all sounds great on paper, but it is usually the exact thing that trips people up and veers them off their healthy eating path. There is always that one friend (or two/three friends) that bring some mouthwatering homemade chocolate chip cookies or that irresistible bag of salt and vinegar kettle chips.

This shouldn’t be a stressful time. You should be able to enjoy yourself without guilt or anxiety attached. In times like these, I like to go by these four rules:

1. Make a plan
2. Be prepared
3. Use moderation
4. Don’t be apologetic

Make a Plan

Always have a game plan in your head before heading out. As the saying goes, fail to plan, plan to fail. Ask around and see what type of gathering it is (food provided or potluck) and the food options will be offered at the gathering. This way you can mentally be prepared and know what to expect. This will also help you get a better idea of what you can bring (if it is a potluck style gathering).

If it is a “bring your own ____” or potluck style, you are in complete control of what items you bring for yourself and to share. You can plan out a dish to make and bring that you like and is in line with your goals.

If you are attending a gathering where food is already provided, have a snack or small meal before going. This way you will have had something to hold you over and not have the temptation to pick at unhealthy options.

Be Prepared

You should always be prepared no matter the situation. For example, even if you know some healthy options may be available at a potluck, make/bring your own. This will ensure that you have an option you can count on. If you know that there will not be anything available for you and you are not able to bring a dish, have a small meal before or bring a snack with you in the case you get hungry. (I like to always carry healthy on-the-go options like jerky and nuts in my purse for those “just in case” situations.)

Use Moderation

Some people think that just because something is Paleo you can eat as much of it as you want without having to think twice. That is not true. For example, nuts and seeds are a great source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. However, they are calorically dense and very easy to overeat.

Nuts and seeds are used a ton in Paleo recipes in replace of wheat and other flours

(breads/dough, muffins, desserts, etc). These may be healthier options, but there still needs to be a sense of awareness when eating them. We need to be mindful of portion sizes for food items like these and use moderation when it comes to how much we are eating of them.

Don’t be Apologetic

You should not have to apologize for what you do or who you are. And that includes sticking to your food choices. Don’t let the fear of what people may think of you bringing a Paleo dish or you sticking to Paleo options change what you do. You have chosen the Paleo lifestyle for yourself, not for them.

Don’t let the holidays be times of stress. Food should not be the center of attention or be the cause of unnecessary anxiety. Enjoy the time with your friends and family and be mindful of your choices.