Specialized Diets and the Holidays

Holidays are on the way. That can mean cultural, religious, work, clubs, or family/friend feasts that vary enormously depending on the focus of the event. Anyone that participates already knows their own dietary limitations. Or maybe they don't know and that can result in more misery than fun.

It is not the job of the people hosting an event to understand the dietary needs of every person in attendance. Actually, it's probably impossible except for maybe small family or friend gatherings. But then, imagine cooking an enormous Thanksgiving meal for 20 people and a dozen of the guests are on a GLP-1. In todays society, that is entirely possible. You may end up with a large amount of leftovers! In that situation it would be helpful to the chef if the guests provided a heads-up in advance. Everyone can still eat as appropriate for them and have a good time.

Below is a partial list of medical reasons a person needs to watch what they eat every day and especially during a holiday gathering, Anyone that falls into one of those categories can prepare in advance (check on the choices in advance if possible) by considering what the menu includes and the best personal choices.

Medical Reason	Example Conditions
Avoid a substance	Celiac, allergies
Control nutrients	Diabetes, CKD, heart failure
Modify texture	Dysphagia
Reduce GI symptoms	IBS, Crohn’s, gastroparesis
Alter metabolism	Epilepsy, metabolic disorders
Reduce inflammation	RA, scleroderma
Correct deficiencies	Cancer, HIV, malabsorption

Please allow me to once again remind the reader that I am not a doctor and I am not a dietician. It is possible that your doctor, once a condition has been identified, referred you to a dietician. There are many diet specific books and you may be tempted to check for advice using AI. The best combination is First: medical provider. Second: Dietician recommended by medical provider. Third: Books and information provided or suggested by a medical provider and dietician. There are recognized associations dedicated to various conditions (diabetes, heart, etc.) that doctors recommend and they also provide nutrition advice.

The point of this mental exercise is to have a healthy, happy holiday season by preparing in advance. It will become second nature. It will help you to avoid unsolicited, non-professional advice and more dangerous, online influencers with miracle solutions. So be smart and party on!

Peace