It’s not something I thought would work for me, but it’s allowed me to have some freedom I typically don’t allow myself. It’s also helped me drop a little weight, and although I’m still behind where I’d like to be, it’s a self-inflicted issue. The fact of the matter is that I’m not being as strict as I’d like to be.

I’m human. I like food and drink. What’s worse, is while I normally have very high levels of dedication and motivation, during the holiday season, we are around friends more often, and we find ourselves in social situations that surround you in food. What’s worse is that food, 99% of the time, is not Paleo. So, what’s a guy to do?

For me, it’s IF. Intermittent Fasting has allowed me to stray off course a little while maintaining (at worst) and even losing a little bit (at best) of weight. I am certain that if I were as strict and careful as I usually am with my food, coupled with IF, I’d be back in the 160’s right now. Am I okay with not being there yet? Yes and no. While I’d like to get back to a more comfortable weight, I take solace knowing that I’ve been able to participate in some social drinking and meals with friends who are dear to me.

So, my weight is holding steady for the most part, and I’m having a very nice holiday season. I’ve been able to have a drink or two here and there and even an order of onion rings. The rest of the time, I eat a very strict Paleo diet. The funny thing is that I definitely feel the side-effects of eating non-Paleo foods when I do: I get the tummy ache, grumbling guts, and more frequent trips to the restroom. But otherwise, IF has allowed me to enjoy things a little more this season, and I’m thankful for that.

Is IF something I will maintain forever? I don’t think so. I enjoy breakfast, and I really do miss my bacon and eggs and the occasional pulled pork and egg casserole or blueberry Paleo pancakes that Sherry makes for me. I’m not sure I can live without those indefinitely.