The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and great food, but it can also feel overwhelming with endless tasks like cleaning, decorating, and cooking. And we know for a fact that stress can trigger IBS and digestive upset. Couple that with the fact that during the holidays we come across many dishes with unknown ingredients. We might eat them and experience an IBS event, or, be so stressed out about whether we should eat it or not, that we trigger IBS anyway!
With a bit of advanced planning, you can make this festive time more enjoyable and less stressful. Here’s a list of tasks you can handle ahead of time to prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas with ease – an lessen your chance of an IBS trigger.
1. Plan Ahead with Nerva & FODZYME
I have a tried and true double-punch approach to IBS-free holidays. I use my Nerva app and carry my FODZYME with me at all times. Nerva is a clinically proven gut-directed hypnotherapy program, and FODZYME is my enzyme blend of choice. Read more in our articles (linked above). These are part of my IBS toolkit, and I am never without them.
2. Non-Food Do-Aheads
Whatever you can do ahead, do it! Getting your linens and silver ready, or purchasing disposables early leaves more time for food prep closer to serving time. If you’re hosting a larger group, consider borrowing or renting extras.
And take stock of your pantry. Make notes of staples to buy early, like flour, sugar, butter, herbs, spices, etc.
3. Plan Seating Arrangements
Ensure you have enough chairs and seating for your guests. Borrow or rent chairs if necessary. Arrange the seating area ahead of time to check for comfort and flow.
4. Make Cranberry Sauce in Advance
Cranberry sauce can be prepared weeks ahead. It freezes well and tastes better after a few days as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container, freeze or refrigerate, and thaw it when needed. We have several recipes for you!
5. Prepare Mashed Potatoes Early
Mashed potatoes can be made a couple of days in advance. Reheat them in a casserole dish with a bit of cream or milk for a creamy texture. If freezing, use plenty of butter and cream to maintain their consistency. Our Do-Ahead mashed Potatoes is one of our most popular holiday recipes!
6. Cook and Freeze Gravy
Gravy is a holiday must-have that can be made ahead and frozen. Reheat it in a saucepan, whisking to restore smoothness. If you plan to use pan drippings, combine them with your pre-made gravy for extra flavor. We have several gravy recipes for you, including a make-ahead version and a vegetarian version that is easy to make vegan.
7. Bake Freezer-Friendly Desserts
Many desserts, like pies and cakes, freeze well. Prepare pies such as pumpkin, freeze them unbaked, and bake them fresh on the day of your event. Rolled cookie dough can also be frozen for last-minute baking. Here is our Holiday Desserts Roundup!
8. Assemble Stuffing Ahead of Time
Stuffing can be made in advance and frozen in a casserole dish or prepared partially by freezing the bread mixture separately. Thaw, add broth, and bake before serving. Here is a roundup on Holiday Side Dishes.
9. Prepare Appetizers in Advance
Save time on the day of your event by prepping appetizers like cheese boards or dips in advance. Cover cheese boards tightly and refrigerate them, adding crackers at the last moment. We have a guide to making the best cheese and charcuterie boards.
10. Prep and Store Vegetables
Chop vegetables like carrots, celery, and scallions/leeks a day or two in advance and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. For greens, wash and dry them, then store with paper towels to absorb moisture.
11. Set the Table Early
If possible, set your table a day or two before the event. Lay out plates, glasses, and utensils, and add decorative elements like centerpieces or candles.
12. Label Serving Dishes
Use sticky notes to label serving dishes with the name of the dish they’ll hold. This helps keep things organized and makes it easier to enlist helpers during the meal.
13. Plan Your Drink Menu
Stock up on beverages early, whether you’re serving wine, cocktails, or non-alcoholic drinks. Prepare mixers or syrups in advance and ensure you have plenty of ice. You can have alcohol on the low FODMAP diet. Here is our guide to Low FODMAP Cocktails & Mocktails.
14. Take Time To Enjoy Friends & Family
While we stand by these steps as tried-and true stress reducers, ultimately the most important thing is to take the time to enjoy one another. You can dine out at a restaurant, have a potluck, sit on folding stairs and use paper plates. Just enjoy one another’s company and have a fantastic holiday season.
By preparing ahead of time, you can focus on enjoying the holidays with your loved ones. A little planning goes a long way in making the season memorable and stress-free!
More Holiday Inspiration!
We are here to help you have the most delicious and trigger-free holiday possible!
- All About The FODMAP Friendly Recipe Maker
- Navigating Holiday Meals with Food Intolerances and Allergies for Hosts & Guests
- What To Do With Thanksgiving Leftovers?
- Turkey 101: Everything You Need to Know To Roast The Perfect Turkey
- FODMAP Stacking at Holiday Meals
- Eat Your Greens at The Holidays!
- 25 Holiday Main Dishes That Aren’t Turkey
