The Joy of Being AIP at the Holidays

Being AIP and managing an autoimmune condition can be…well, interesting

You never know where a secret allergen may be hiding

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Or what enlightening conversations you may have about your diet with your second cousin, Jerry

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Sometimes it seems like everyone around you is excited, while you’re just trying to act “normal” at the family gathering

Shopping for gifts can be exhausting just by itself

But coordinating 100 family events, pageants and plays, while finding the perfect decorations for your festivus is just downright turbulent

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For the most part, you just want to take a nap

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And eat the whole plate of gluten-filled cookies

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But you’ll make due with sipping your AIP-approved “egg nog”

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And doing what you can to eat at your in-law’s house

And praying there’s bacon on something so you can eat it

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But there’s good things, too!

Like finally getting that Instant Pot you’ve wanted for so long because it’s 70% off on Black Friday

Or finding some AIP-friendly goodies in your stocking

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And oh, when you get that new AIP cookbook you’ve been wanting…well, kids’ excitement is nothing compared to your level of glee

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But the best things about being AIP at the holidays…

Are when someone makes you feel extra special by making you an AIP-friendly food item

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Patting yourself on the back while watching everyone in sweatpants and food comas while you’re sipping hot tea and thinking how fabulous you’ll feel in the New Year

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And of course, when the holidays are finally over and you can finally unwind

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Happy holidays, everyone! 🙂

psst… did you like this Buzzfeed-style post? Then you’ll love this one! 20 Things Only Someone With an Autoimmune Condition Will Understand