Paleo and the Holiday Season
The festive season is here, and sticking to the Paleo lifestyle can be tough with desserts, cocktails, and Christmas cookies everywhere. I love letting loose in December too, but as a whiskey fan, alcohol is always my biggest challenge.
Earlier this year, I read Robb Wolf’s The Paleo Solution and came across his go-to holiday drink: the Norcal Margarita—arguably the most Paleo-friendly option out there.
The Norcal Margarita
Alcohol isn’t Paleo, but sometimes you need a little balance. Wolf recommends tequila for a reason. It comes from the agave plant, so it’s naturally gluten-free (unlike beer or many wines). Plus, the lime juice helps blunt insulin release, and soda water’s carbonation delivers the alcohol faster—meaning you feel it sooner and may drink less.
Ingredients:
-
2 shots tequila (gold if possible)
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
Soda water to top
Simple, refreshing, and a lot cleaner than sugary cocktails.
Not a Tequila Fan?
If tequila isn’t for you, stick with clear spirits and avoid dark liquors. As for mixers, skip sodas like cola or lemonade and stick to plain soda water. It’s not 100% Paleo, but it keeps things lighter and closer to the spirit of the diet.
Smarter Drinking Tips
Want to enjoy the holidays without the hangover? Try these:
-
Drink earlier: Have a couple in the afternoon or early evening so your body can process the alcohol before bed.
-
Avoid a heavy meal first: You’ll feel the effects quicker and drink less.
-
Recover smart: Before bed, eat some protein and healthy fats, hydrate, and give your body what it needs to reset. Tomorrow is another day—and another WOD.
Final Word
For more, check out Robb Wolf’s The Paleo Solution, which we highly recommend. And if you’re curious about how other drinks compare, sites like Sokolin Wine Ratings can help.
From all of us at The Rx Review: happy holidays, happy training, and happy (responsible) drinking!
Follow Us