By nature, I am a foodie. Food is more than just fuel – it’s a sensory experience that connects me to the places I’ve been, the people I’ve shared meals with, and the memories that make life so rich. However, navigating life with dietary restrictions – avoiding dairy, wheat, and sugar – can sometimes feel like an ongoing tug-of-war. On one hand, I know the importance of honoring my health, but on the other, there’s the undeniable pull of delicious foods that speak to my soul. And let me tell you, the struggle is real.

But here’s the thing: despite my best efforts to stick to a health-conscious routine, life has a funny way of reminding me that I’m still human, with cravings and desires tied to experiences.

When I think of my favorite foods, they’re often linked to moments of celebration, like the pies we had for birthdays growing up. Pies, rather than cakes, were the treat of choice in our family, and it’s a tradition I carried on as I had children. For my husband, it’s always double cream blueberry pie (or rich German chocolate cake). For me, it’s the tang of coconut cream pie, the zest of key lime, or the smooth richness of lemon cream cheese pie. These are the foods that bring me joy, that connect me to cherished memories.

And then there’s peach pudding. My grandmother’s recipe, filled with fresh peaches, sugar, and rich cream – the dessert I anticipate every August as peach season approaches. It’s the food I often had on my birthday, September 1st, and the one that always brings a flood of warmth and nostalgia.

But now, with my dietary restrictions, that comforting dish of peach pudding is something I can’t indulge in. The craving for it is so strong, and the memories so vivid, yet I know I can’t quite recreate it without sacrificing what I need for my body.

Image courtesy of We The Creators

It’s a bittersweet feeling – the desire for comfort, tradition, and those familiar flavors, while also knowing that indulging in them may leave me feeling less than my best. But here’s where a change of scenery can make all the difference. Vacations, for me, are a sacred time to let go of the restrictions and embrace the food culture of the place I’m visiting.

When I’m on vacation, I allow myself to indulge in the foods that call to me, the ones that make a destination feel complete. I’m grateful for the memories of eating pasta in Little Italy in Baltimore, Maryland – the rich, comforting sauce, the perfectly cooked noodles, and the atmosphere that made the meal feel like an experience rather than just a meal.

I’m also thankful for the piroshky I tried at Piroshky Piroshky in Pike Place Market in Seattle. It wasn’t so much about indulgence but about embracing the experience of trying food from another country and partaking in one of the hottest food spots at the market. The warm, flaky pastry filled with a savory filling was an adventure in itself – a culinary moment that tied me to a vibrant culture and added a bit of spice to my travels.

I also recall the Chilaquiles I had in Lancaster, PA– a dish that was rich with flavor and the perfect balance of heat and freshness. It was a delightful, satisfying breakfast that I won’t forget. And let’s not forget the fish and chips I had on the East Coast – the crisp batter, the tender fish, and the perfect portion of fries that made it an unforgettable meal.

And then, there was the coconut shrimp taco I had in Washington, DC. It wasn’t just about indulging in a delicious taco—it was about the experience of eating fresh, flavorful food while exploring the vibrant streets of DC. The taco was light yet satisfying, with the perfect blend of sweetness from the shrimp and a hint of spice.

These are the experiences that make travel so special. I don’t want to miss out on those moments of exploration and enjoyment, as they add richness and joy to the journey.

And then there is caramel apple night. Every November, my sister hosts a caramel apple night, and it’s something we all eagerly look forward to each year. It’s a beloved tradition where we gather together to create our own version of a gourmet caramel apple.  We choose from a variety of indulgent toppings—everything from crushed nuts to peppermint or cinnamon, and even three different kinds of chocolate. While I know I’m stepping outside my usual dietary routine, I fully embrace the experience. I savor the apples and toppings, knowing that after this moment of indulgence, I’ll return to my healthier diet. The joy of being with family, enjoying something delicious, and celebrating a special tradition is worth every bite. It’s a reminder that life is about balance—finding room for joy and indulgence while also honoring my overall health.

Image courtesy of Youjeen Cho

While I am committed to eating in a way that supports my health, I also believe in living fully, in savoring the experiences that make life rich. And part of that is enjoying the foods that make travel unforgettable. There’s something deeply satisfying about eating a dish in its place of origin, fully immersed in the culture, the atmosphere, and the moment. I savor these indulgences because they are more than just food – they’re memories in the making.

The key, for me, is balance. I know that indulging on vacation isn’t something to feel guilty about. It’s about enjoying the moment, then returning to my healthier habits when I’m home. I’ve learned to navigate the delicate balance between honoring my cravings and honoring my health, and sometimes that means enjoying the food that calls to me in the moment – with gratitude and mindfulness. After all, life is too short to not enjoy the things that bring us joy, and food, when experienced fully, is one of those joys.

Many of the foods I enjoy have no ingredients that are on my do-not-consume list, which is a blessing. Dishes like fresh Thai food, with its vibrant herbs and spices, are naturally free of dairy, wheat, and sugar. I gravitate toward meals filled with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and aromatic herbs like lemongrass, cilantro, and basil. Savory soups and crisp salads are often part of my go-to meals, and they fit perfectly with my dietary needs. It’s a relief to know that I can savor these flavorful dishes without feeling restricted, enjoying both the taste and the peace of mind that they’re aligned with my health goals.

In the end, cultivating joy, especially when living with chronic illness, is about finding balance. It’s important to nourish your body with healthy foods most of the time, but it’s equally essential to allow room for the special experiences that bring you joy. Food is not just fuel; it’s a way to celebrate life, connect with others, and create lasting memories. That doesn’t mean indulging every day, but rather savoring those moments when food becomes part of an experience—whether it’s a special trip or a nostalgic dish tied to a cherished memory. So, enjoy those indulgences with intention and mindfulness, knowing that true joy comes from the balance of nourishing both body and spirit.

Featured image courtesy of Jorge Zapata

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