Ah, the holidays: a time of turkey, mistletoe, andif you're anything like Alex Halla little culinary magic that keeps your gut (and your romantic plans) in check. As the founder of The Bottom's Digest, a platform dedicated to bottom-friendly recipes, Alex has reimagined the intersection of food, sex, and self-care. The concept of "bottom-friendly" dining might make some blush and perhaps think of nothing but a meal of freshly-cut ice cubes and a hearty serving of air, but Alex is refreshingly candid. His mission? To debunk myths, advocate for queer health, and celebrate the nuances of a diet that doesn't just satisfy the palate but also supports a more pleasurable experience in the bedroom. Why Bottom-Friendly Matters View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Bottoms Digest (@bottomsdigest)Alex started The Bottom's Digest in 2021, initially inspired by the challenges queer individuals face in reconciling diet with intimacy. "I'd been hearing the same tired jokes for years," Alex recollects. "Ice cubes and starving yourself before sex? No thanks!" Hall's professional background in reproductive rights gave them a lens through which to explore food as an intersectional issue. However, it was his personal experiences and a growing awareness of the broader LGBTQ+ community's dietary concerns that truly propelled their passion project forward. He noticed how many people were disconnected from understanding their bodies and dietary triggersan issue Alex addresses with compassion and science. Enter Tim Spector, an epidemiologist whose work on gut health profoundly influenced Alex's approach to recipe development. "He's led the world's largest gut study," Alex gushes, crediting Spector for deepening his focus on nuanced, individualized eating. "There are 8 billion people on the planet, and no one's body works the same way. That's why I say: figure out your triggers and make adjustments." Holiday FavoritesWith a TwistRegarding bottom-friendly holiday dishes, Alex is all about indulgence...with intention. "The holidays are so layered for queer people," he notes. "Many of us don't go home, and some create entirely new traditions. It's important to honor that complexity." For some, traditions can still be present under a tree. Others enjoy the holidays with their chosen family. And then some may indulge in a holiday 'treat' or two, for Santa may not be the only one coming down the chimney. But regardless of the traditions, food is a way to bring holiday cheer during this time of the year. So, what's on the festive menu? Alex's dairy-free macaroni and cheese is a standout. It is loved for its uncanny ability to fool even the most skeptical dairy enthusiasts. The secret? "Don't tell people it's dairy-free," Alex quips. Other go-to dishes include fiber-rich staples like roasted potatoes and turkeyhonestly, this one was a shockerpaired perfectly with bottom-friendly sauces. Pumpkin pie, a surprising source of fiber, makes a triumphant appearance at Christmas tables. Alex has a Louisiana-inspired twist for those who want to break from tradition: oven-baked friend catfish with dairy-free cheesy grits. "It's a nod to my dad's roots," he shares, proving that even regional comfort foods can align with gut health goals. Balancing Indulgence and Gut HealthNavigating the tension between indulgence and responsibility is key during the holidays. "It's all about knowing what you're getting into," Alex says. "If you're staying with family for a week, you might not be the most horny you've ever been. But if you're sneaking away to a hookup's house, you'll need to plan accordingly." Alex's advice is rooted in flexibility and self-forgiveness. "Enjoy the indulgent food," he urges. "If you eat something heavy, give yourself 30 minutes to gauge how you feel before deciding what's next. And if you overdo it, c'est la vie! You'll digest it, you'll past it, and sex can wait until tomorrow." The real key? Avoid self-shaming. "Let yourself enjoy the moment," he proclaims. "In the kitchen and beyond." Recipes and Resources View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Bottoms Digest (@bottomsdigest)For those ready to dive into bottom-friendly cooking beyond the holidays, Alex recommends starting with The Bottom Digest's foundational recipes, like dairy-free cheese and cream sauces. These versatile bases can transform classics like green bean casserole into gut-friendly delights. And if you're sensitive to common ingredients like mushrooms or onions, Alex has you covered with easy substitutions. "The goal is to give people tools to make recipes their own," they emphasize. "We're not reinventing the whell; we're just making the ride smoother." So this holiday season, ditch the shame, grab a fork, and indulge in bottom-friendly style. Alex reminds us that life is too short for lousy mac and cheese or bad vibes before getting it on. When it comes to balancing gut health and holiday cheer, Bottom's Digest will ensure your chimney stays clear. All of the recipes are available at thebottomsdigest.com.