How to Stay Low-Carb During the Holidays

Staying Low-Carb on Holidays: Surviving and Thriving The holiday season is full of joy, celebrations, and delicious food—but it can also be a challenging time for those committed to a low-carb lifestyle. From carb-heavy comfort foods to tempting desserts, staying on track might feel impossible. Fear not! With a few smart strategies, you can navigate the festivities, enjoy the season, and stick to your low-carb goals. Set Yourself Up for Success 1. Plan Ahead Before attending a holiday gathering, check the menu (if available) or plan your strategy. Look for protein-rich dishes and low-carb sides, and consider bringing a dish to share that fits your dietary needs. 2. Eat Before You Go Arrive at events with a satisfied stomach by having a low-carb meal or snack beforehand. This will help you make better choices and avoid overindulging in carb-heavy appetizers or desserts. 3. Focus on Protein and Veggies    At holiday dinners, center your plate around turkey, ham, or fish, along w...

Is it Keto?


People ask if I'm doing Keto (the ketogenic diet). The answer is yes... and no. I try to stay within the recommended parameters or percentages of fat/protein/carbohydrates. My personal target is 72% fats, 20% proteins, and 8% carbohydrates. These are the percentages of my total daily calorie intake. However, I also try to consume at least 5 servings of vegetables per day.

My carb goal is only 8%, which is quite a bit lower than some keto diets recommend. I chose this simply because I am a diabetic, and I'm controlling my blood sugar with diet and exercise. I stopped taking insulin a few months ago. I was able to do that safely by reducing my intake of carbs and eating more healthy foods. No processed foods, no simple sugars, etc. I only eat fruit on rare occasions. I do take lots of supplements to ensure that I'm getting enough vitamins and minerals.

So it's not precisely "keto", but it IS low carb, and frankly I'm feeling great!

Oh, what about snacking? I love these bars from Nick's that I get off Amazon. I limit myself to a maximum of one per day. They are less than 2 net grams of carbohydrates, and they taste amazing. 

My other "go to" snacks are nuts, cheese, and of course veggies. I frequently grab a carrot to munch on while I prepare meals for my family so I'm not tempted (they still eat "normally").

Books about low carb diets and recipes to help you stay on track.

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The information provided here is not intended as medical advice and should not be considered a substitute for professional healthcare guidance. It is offered for informational purposes only, and individuals should consult with qualified healthcare professionals for personalized advice regarding their health conditions.