Planning Ahead…Diabetes and the Holidays

‘Tis the season for shopping, decorating, parties, and lots of food. Tempting treats are everywhere. And while the holidays can be the most wonderful time of the year, they can also be the most stressful, especially for those with health problems.

People with diabetes know that the holidays can be an especially tricky time of year to manage their health. But with some careful planning and smart decision making, the holidays can be both happy and healthy. Follow our tips, below, and enjoy the season!

When going to a holiday party, decide ahead of time what and how much you will eat. Have a healthy snack before going out so you are not starving and don’t give in to cravings and go overboard on carbohydrate-heavy foods.

Fill your plate will healthy things like fruits and veggies with low-fat dip and lean protein like turkey. Share a dessert with a friend or only have a small amount and skip the whipped topping. Or even better, bring a low-fat or sugar-free dish to the next holiday party you attend so you know that you can enjoy it guilt-free. Also, when you’re out holiday shopping, bring along healthy snacks like apples slices, whole grain crackers or nuts and avoid the food court, and possible low blood sugars.

Don’t go overboard on the spirits of the season. Alcohol can cause your blood sugar to rise, so take it easy on the eggnog, which is also high in fat and sugar.

This is not the time to take a holiday from your daily exercise routine! Being more active helps keep your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol in the healthy ranges. Exercise is also a great way to beat stress of holiday shopping! So take a break from wrapping gifts and take a walk around your neighborhood and enjoy the holiday lights.

If you are going away for the holidays, don’t forget that diabetes travels with you. Planning ahead for travel is key for people with diabetes. Remember to get all of your prescriptions filled before you hit the road or the air. If possible, take extras with you…just in case. And if you are flying to your holiday destination, make sure you carry all or your diabetic supplies with you in your carry on bag.

Diabetes doesn’t have to put a damper on your holiday festivities.  With a little bit of planning, the holidays can be still be the joyous, fun and family-filled celebrations you’ve always enjoyed. Enjoy Yourself and Happy Holidays!