Let’s talk about it: being social on a diet that makes people look at you like I’ve joined some secret underground steak society. Oh… wait… I did…
You’d think I joined some underground meat cult the way people react when I decline the bread basket or ask if the steak can be cooked in butter instead of vegetable oil.
It’s not that I’m trying to be difficult, it’s just that I’ve finally found something that works. And newsflash: I still love good food, deep conversations, and yes, eating out. I just don’t want my dinner to come with a side of inflammation.
Dining Out Without Drama
At restaurants, I’ve become “that person.” The one asking for substitutions, holding the sauce, skipping the side salad. But guess what? The world didn’t end. Most places are happy to grill up a steak or salmon filet and keep the rest simple. Some even throw in extra butter if you smile nicely. They love me!
Sure, I’ve had my fair share of awkward moments:
- “Wait, so… no vegetables?”
- “You’re literally just eating meat?”
- “Is this like keto on steroids?”
Yes. And no. And let’s not make this the focus of the dinner party, Brenda!
But honestly 9 of the 10 times I don’t even mention it and eat around it.
Airport Snacks, Gasstations, Weddings & Other Landmines
Airports are the Wild West of food choices. I’ve learned to travel prepared: boiled eggs, cheese, jerky, and the ever-glamorous tin of sardines. Is it elegant? No. Is it survival? Absolutely.
Weddings, birthdayparties are trickier. Buffets are carb wonderlands. I once built a meal out of meatballs and a questionable slice of roast beef, and still danced like nobody’s digestive tract was inflamed.
Social Pressure: The Real Side Dish
But let’s get real. The hardest part isn’t the food, it’s the social pressure. The looks. The passive comments. The “oh come on, just one bite” guilt traps.
Here’s my advice: bring your humor, bring your confidence, and bring a snack if needed. Your health isn’t a group decision. And if someone can’t handle you skipping the quinoa salad? That’s on them, not you.
So yes, you can be social on this diet. You can still go out, have fun, and connect, all without compromising your body.
Because nothing says “I’m thriving” like walking past the dessert table with zero regret and a purse full of bacon or a hard boil egg (yes, I carry that one in my purse).
The Woman Behind the Jersey 