Celebrating The Holidays With Diabetes

The season of eating is upon us! For many, holidays include time spent with family and friends, laughing, eating, and drinking. Add in travel and your routine goes right out the window. When it comes to living with diabetes, this can make your meal plan seem impossible, especially when those around you aren’t restricted. However, with the right tips, you can still enjoy your holiday favorites without feeling ill:=

Eat Before You Go

A busy holiday season can make it easy to skip meals, but the more you do, the harder it will be to regulate your blood sugar. Make it a point to keep your meal times similar to your normal day-to-day. If you happen to have a dinner party that is a bit later than your regular eating schedule, eat a small snack before and just cut back on your dinner portion.

Bring A Dish

Not hosting? Offer to bring a meal or favorite dish with you. Not only is it a nice gesture, but it can help you know exactly what you're consuming and provides you with a healthy option, in case there isn’t one available.

Eat Slowly

Try to enjoy the company around you and slowly enjoy your meal. Eating a meal slowly is better for your digestive system while allowing you time to feel full. The more you pace yourself, the less likely you are to overindulge. Try to avoid sitting at the table for too long, and if the party is buffet style, move the conversation away from the food.

Limit Your Alcohol

If you plan to have a toast or a celebratory drink, be sure you do so on a full stomach. Alcohol consumption will lower your blood sugar, so be sure to check your sugar levels often. If you are on specific diabetes medication, discuss with your doctor before having an alcoholic drink, as some might not interact well with alcohol.

Don’t Deprive Yourself

Just because you have to watch portion size does not mean you have to avoid all savory holiday dishes. Staying active, having smaller portions, and including your favorites in your meal plan are all perfectly okay. Pick your holiday favorite, have a small piece, and enjoy it.