Amongst the hustling and bustling, traveling, family dinners, and parties; the holiday season is the time of year everyone looks forward to. It’s the time of year that gives us a chance to be with loved ones and surround ourselves with good company, good food, and good drinks.
If you have Diabetes, you know how challenging it can be to enjoy all the indulgences that come with the holiday season while managing your health. Don’t let the holidays throw you off your game. Read more on ways that you can manage your diabetes during the holiday season.
- Planning could help you manage meals through the rest of the day. Eat a well-balanced breakfast earlier to help curb your appetite. Try choosing healthier snack options such as nuts, vegetables, or string cheese.
- At the dinner table, limit the servings of starchy foods. Don’t completely pass up your aunt’s famous sweet potato souffle. Instead, try to limit your serving to a few bites or a small portion.
- Stay clear of sweetened drinks! Drink low-calorie drinks such as water, diet sodas, club soda, or unsweet tea. Sweetened drinks can have hundreds of calories that can raise blood glucose levels.
- Limit the consumption of alcohol. Alcohol is high in calories and sugar that have a big effect on triglycerides. According to the American Diabetes Association, alcohol blocks glucose production in the liver which causes blood glucose to decrease. Before drinking, ask your doctor if it is safe to drink alcohol, and if you do, drink in moderation.
- Make exercising a priority. Go for a 30-minute walk or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Regular exercise can help you stay on track during the holidays, help to lower triglyceride levels, and burn off calories.
Living with Diabetes shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying the holiday season. There are tons of resources that you can utilize to help you manage your diabetes. Here are some healthy recipe options for you to check out!
Click for healthy Thanksgiving recipes.
Food Network Diabetes Friendly Recipes.
Get involved!
The holidays are a time of joy and having diabetes doesn’t have to change that. If you have Type 1 or 2 Diabetes, consider a research study as an option. Those that qualify may receive study-related care and medication, and a better understanding of the condition and how to manage it. Participants may also receive compensation for time and travel.
Browse enrolling Type 1 and 2 Diabetes near you HERE!
