The holidays are meant for joy, family and good food, but if you’re living with diabetes, this time of year can feel a little overwhelming.
The good news? Dr. Chelsea Lane, a physician at Tidelands Health Endocrinology at The Market Common, says you can still savor the celebrations without sacrificing your health.
“With a little preparation, you can stay on track with your diabetes management during the holiday season,” Dr. Lane says.
“Think about your plate before you fill it,” Dr. Lane says. “If you know what’s being served, you can make choices that fit your goals without feeling deprived.”
You can also consider making your own diabetes-friendly dish to bring and share.
Holiday favorites are fine in moderation. You can bring a smaller plate with you to the function to help you adequately portion your meal.
“I recommend that patients go to their favorite foods first and get a palm-size serving,” Dr. Lane says. “This can help satisfy that carb-craving you may have without depriving yourself during the holidays.”
Meals may include more carbs and sweets than usual. Monitor your levels before and after eating.
“Frequent checks give you feedback,” Dr. Lane says. “It’s easier to make adjustments when you know where you stand.”
Take a walk after dinner or play an active game with family. Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar.
“Movement is medicine,” says Dr. Lane. “Going for a 15-minute stroll after eating can do wonders for moderating blood sugar levels.”
Avoid “saving up” calories for a big feast. Skipping meals can cause blood sugar swings and lead to overeating later.
“Enjoy your time with friends and family, but don’t forget to bring your insulin with you to the feast,” Dr. Lane says.