The holidays are officially here - gatherings, cocktails, dinners and all the joy and potential triggers that come with them.
And if you’re managing MCAS, Histamine Intolerance, or other sensitivities, you might be feeling overwhelmed and a little unsure about how to participate.
We’ve been there ourselves. And we’d like to help you find ways to join in the celebration without the flares!
Let’s start with the foundation...
It’s easy to set self-care aside in the hustle and bustle. But we all know that’s bound to backfire sooner or later. We get an influx of people in flares every January.
So, through the season remember to support yourself by:
Doing your nervous system work (hint: pick something you actually like doing)
Hydrating
Prioritizing sleep
Setting aside time to rest and pace yourself
Considering increasing your health and mast cell supports
Making sure you have
your flare planin placeRemember it’s okay to say, “no thanks”
Taking care of yourself means you’ll have more room to both participate and spread the holiday joy.
If you’re heading to a gathering, preparation is key. Communicate your needs with the host ahead of time.
Depending on your sensitivity level and how well you know the host, you might want to:
Ask for no scented candles or plugins
Request open windows to air out the house before you arrive
Eat ahead of time or bring a frozen meal that’s easy to reheat
If it’s a casual gathering, bring a shareable side dish or snack everyone can enjoy. You’ll have something safe, and you get the pleasure of sharing.
You can also:
Rest extra that day and after
Keep your histamine bucket lower so you can indulge a little
Make sure you’re prioritizing your self-care
If you’re too sensitive to navigate someone else’s home, consider hosting a small gathering at your house.
You already know the environment, the food, and you get to pick the guests.
Keep it simple. Keep it supportive.
It can even be as small as just one trusted person and food you know works for you. Zero apologies needed.
You can even share recipes that people can help prepare and bring, so you’re not the only one cooking!
You may want to ask guests not to wear perfumes or other scents.
You can also:
Rest extra that day and after
Keep your histamine bucket lower so you can indulge a little
Make sure you’re prioritizing your self-care
For more ideas, no matter what size the gathering, whether you’re hosting or heading out, read the post below!
[MEAL IDEAS & PARTY TIPS FOR CELEBRATIONS + TIPS FOR TALKING TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY]
If you’re far enough along in your healing journey and want to raise a glass, you have lower histamine options!
Clear spirits with fresh ingredients are delicious, lower histamine alcohol options. Clean, high-quality vodka with cranberry or blueberry juice, classic rum mojitos, mango margaritas, and more.
And, if you’re not quite there yet, we’ve got you covered with mocktail options, too.
[CLICK HERE TO READ OUR POST INCLUDING 7 LOWER HISTAMINE COCKTAIL RECIPES (AND MOCKTAIL OPTIONS!)]
Living with chronic illness means you’ve already mastered planning and adapting.
This season, celebrate in whatever way honors both your health and your need for connection and joy.
Whether that’s attending parties, hosting on your terms, or gathering with just one beloved person, it all counts.
Together in healing,**The Mast Cell 360 Team **
PS Want more tips for holiday joy without the flares? Check out our top recommendations to shop for this holiday season and save!
It’s important you know that Mast Cell 360 resources are for informational and educational purposes. Mast Cell 360 does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prescribe for any disease or medical condition. Recommendations are based on the opinion of Mast Cell 360 and are not meant to replace the care of a medical practitioner. Always consult your physician before changing your healthcare regimen. Supplements/products mentioned are not designed to treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. And these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.Some links may be affiliate links, which means we may make a very small commission if you purchase through the link. It never costs you any more to purchase through the links, and we try to find the best deals we can. We only recommend products that we love and use personally or use in our practice. Any commissions help support the newsletter, website, and ongoing research so we can continue to offer you free tips, recipes, and info. Thank you for your support!
