Part 2 is further support for all Ketonians at a time of year where we are surrounded by sweet treats and temptations at every turn. It may sound difficult but with creativity and the right mindset you can do it! The blogs are centered around holiday parties and events where lots of food and people are involved because that’s when temptation is highest and pressure is strongest.

We ended Blog Part 1 with family and friend gatherings. But what about all those other endless events and parties? If possible, eat before you go. At least enough so that you arrive fairly full and won’t end up eating whatever is put in front of you because you are hungry. Focus on finding the foods that you can eat (cheese, nuts, meats, olives, salad, veggies, etc.) and enjoy having more time to socialize. Honestly, you’ll be surprised that most people won’t even notice.

A common question is What about Alcohol? Practice moderation (which is a skill you've acquired already since you've been doing Keto -keep that mindset) and stay with the most “Keto” friendly drinks knowing that no matter what it will affect your ketosis level and turn off your body’s ability to burn fat.

Also, note to self: when you are Keto you do get drunk faster and have worse hangovers.

· Vodka, tequila or gin for clear alcohol or whiskey and rum are also Keto approved.

· What about wines? Prosecco, Champagne (stay away for Chardonnay or Rose) or a Pinot Grigio or Pinot Noir

· Stay away from heavy red wines like Malbec or Merlot

· Stay away from Beer (unless it’s a light beer) but definitely avoid IPA beers as they have from 13 – 20 carbs of carbs.

The Scouts had it right “Always be prepared”. Carry an “emergency” bag with you at all times (Keto crackers, chocolates,nuts, bars, nut butters, olive oil, etc.) and your fave go to foods. This strategy has saved me on many, many occasions and will do the same for you.

I have an amazing and delicious compilation of Holiday recipes - cream of mushroom soup, egg nog, pecan and pumpkin pie bars with a shortbread crust, sugar cookies, icing, etc. I'm happy to share. I made them last year and everyone loved them!

It’s not about “surviving the Holidays! It’s about thriving and enjoying yourself. Plan on waking up January 1 feeling better than ever and saying “Wow, this was the best holiday ever. I ate delicious foods and I feel fantastic and I didn't gain weight” That's a win-win :)

Holiday Blessings and Keto On!

Michelle Borthwick- Coaching Intuitive Keto & the Low Carb Lifestyle for the Every Day Woman. There is a lot of Keto hype out there about a one-size-fits-all Keto formula with lots of "Keto Rules". This is causing confusion and creating unrealistic promise. Keto has to be customized to your lifestyle, your body chemistry and be sustainable. I have been through my own trials with Keto and studied it until I perfected "Intuitive Keto"! I've lived Keto successfully for the last 16 months. Plantar Fasciiatis gone! Gerd gone! 35 pounds gone! Pre-diabetes gone! Please reach out to me with any questions or if you'd like Holiday recipes. ketoiseasy@gmail.com or on Facebook @ketoiseasycoach