Mastering the Holidays: A Guide for Men on a Plant-Based Diet (Part 1 - Conversations)
Authored by Kyle Golden (November 20, 2023)
"You’re Not Eating Meat?!"
So, you've decided to stop eating meat, and perhaps dairy and eggs too. With the holidays approaching, you're concerned about not only the limited food choices at the table, but also the potential comments or jokes from friends and family members.
“How do you get your protein?”
“What do you put on the grill?”
“Don’t you miss meat?”
“What about bacon?!”
Don't worry! I’m here to arm you with tips and tricks to navigate the holidays while maintaining your dietary choices.
Remain Calm
Firstly, avoid becoming defensive or argumentative. Keep the conversation positive and emphasize the true reasons you decided to go plant-based, such as improved health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. It’s hard to criticize someone who's looking out for their own interests and benefiting others simultaneously. Consider jotting these points down on a card or on your phone before going to dinner to ensure you're fully prepared.
Do Some Research
Look up some facts about plant-based diets from credible sources. Be ready to debunk myths that may arise at the dinner table. Explain how you still get plenty of nutrients, like protein, through foods like seitan, soy, lentils, and supplements. You could even share some of your favorite ways to prepare these foods. You might be surprised by how receptive people are to learning about new foods and recipes.
Share Your Journey
Everyone loves to hear personal stories. Be ready to share your experience and the benefits of your plant-based diet transition. Discuss how this change has improved your life and the lives of others. Whether the benefits include weight loss, increased energy, or more sustainable living, sharing your experience can make the conversation more engaging and relatable.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Set an Example
The holidays could turn into an opportunity to have a positive influence on the life of someone else. By sharing the benefits and joys of your lifestyle, you could set an example for someone else who might be attending the holiday gathering and has been toying with the idea of adopting a plant-based diet. Your personal experiences, triumphs, and even challenges with your plant-based lifestyle could provide them with the necessary motivation and support. Your influence could be the key to helping them make a decision that positively impacts their health and well-being.
Be Lighthearted
Finally, you could try to maintain a sense of humor and not take any jokes or comments to heart. It's not uncommon for people to make light of things they don't fully understand or might feel slightly threatened by, so be prepared for a few good-natured jabs. The key is to not let these remarks affect you or dampen your spirits. You can either laugh along or change the subject gracefully. Remember, your dietary choices are personal and should be respected, just as you respect others' choices.
Enjoy the Festivities
It's entirely possible to enjoy the holidays having gone plant-based. With a bit of planning you can ensure that you and your loved ones all keep the spirits bright. Stay positive, well-informed, and ready to share your experiences and the benefits of your lifestyle. Remember, your dietary choices can be a source of inspiration for others. So, navigate the holiday season with grace, humor, and a sense of adventure. Most importantly, enjoy a healthy, hearty, and fulfilling holiday feast!
In Part 2 of "Mastering the Holidays: A Guide for Men on a Plant-Based Diet", I'll offer tips on how to navigate the holiday menu while maintaining your plant-based lifestyle.
Recommended Reading
If you liked this article Exercise Snacking, you might also like:
Hi, I’m Kyle Golden,
Founder and Coach at Vireo Fitness. For over 16 years I have helped hundreds of clients just like you find their path to better health. Get in touch today and find out how I can help you embrace a better lifestyle and realize your full potential!