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St. Patrick’s Day is a vibrant celebration of Irish heritage, observed worldwide on March 17. Originally a religious holiday honoring St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, it has evolved into a day of parades, music, and, of course, plenty of green. St. Patrick is credited with spreading Christianity across Ireland and famously using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, giving rise to the holiday’s association with the three-leafed clover and all things green. These are a few festive cities that really know how to host a celebration:
 

• Chicago: Famous for dyeing its river a bright emerald green, Chicago’s festivities include parades and lively parties along the waterfront.
• Boston: With its deep Irish roots, Boston boasts one of the most authentic St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S.
• New York City: The iconic Fifth Avenue parade is the largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the world.
• Dublin, Ireland: The heart of the celebration, Dublin hosts a multi-day festival with a massive parade, street performances, and Irish dancing.
• Sydney, Australia: Celebrating with its own twist, Sydney lights up its famous Opera House in green and hosts cultural events.

Traditional foods and drinks

No St. Patrick’s Day celebration is complete without Irish-inspired fare. Classic dishes include corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, Irish soda bread, and hearty plates of potatoes. On the beverage side, green beer, Irish whiskey, and creamy pints of Guinness often take center stage. While delicious, these traditional indulgences can be heavy, salty, or high in alcohol — less than ideal for those with MS.

Mindful eating and drinking with MS

St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to practice mindful indulgence. Overindulgence in salty foods or alcohol can exacerbate MS symptoms such as fatigue, inflammation, and poor sleep. But celebrating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or fun. Here are some delicious, healthier alternatives:

Drink swaps:
 

• Matcha mocktail: A refreshing green drink made with sparkling water, lime juice, and matcha powder for a natural energy boost.
• Cucumber-mint cooler: Infuse water or sparkling water with cucumber slices, fresh mint, and a splash of lemon for a light, hydrating beverage.
• Green smoothie: Blend spinach, avocado, a splash of coconut water, and pineapple for a nutrient-packed treat.

Food swaps:
 

• Sweet potato and cauliflower mash: A lighter, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs.
• Herb-roasted rainbow vegetables: Roast carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil and rosemary for a festive, colorful side.
• Lean corned beef bowl: Use lean cuts of corned beef served over steamed cabbage and a small portion of quinoa for a balanced, lower-sodium take on the classic dish.
• Irish soda bread muffins: Try whole-grain or gluten-free flour to make smaller portions of soda bread with less refined carbs and more fiber.
• Mini-shepherd’s pies: Use ground turkey or lentils instead of beef, with a mashed sweet potato topping for added nutrition.

St. Patrick’s Day is about celebrating community, culture, and a little bit of luck. With these delicious alternatives, you can enjoy the festivities while making choices that support your health and well-being. Sláinte (cheers) to a happy and healthy celebration.