Managing Diabetes During the Holidays

There are over 14 holidays and observations that occur in the month of December. It is a time of celebrations and gatherings of friends and family. This the season for excitement and laughter but it can also bring much anxiety and frustration for those with type one diabetes. With the shopping and travel and all the festivities adding the management of diabetes into the mixed can seem daunting. Here are a few tips to help keep you on track.

• Keep to a routine – During the month of December your calendar may be filled up with office parties, family gatherings, and weekend trips but it is important to keep to your normal routine as much as possible. Aim to continue your daily activities as close as you can. Sticking with your scheduled exercise, meals, and medication will help with blood sugar control.
• Don’t skip meals – As mentioned above, making sure you continue to eat your breakfast, lunch, and dinner will help keep your blood sugar within range. It will also help you not overeat, especially carbs, when attending holiday functions or encountering sweet treats at every turn.
• Eat balanced meals daily – Eating balanced meals of protein, carbs, and healthy fats daily with help fuel your body and keep you satisfied longer. This will also help to balance out when you do have a treat or two at a party. Aim to have a serving of non-starchy vegetable and lean protein at every meal.
• Don’t deprive yourself – You don’t have to say no to ALL the treats. It is ok to have a small amount of sweets and treats at a party. Just make sure that you have also eaten a well-balanced meal to help stabilize your blood sugar and reduce the risk of a spike. Making sure you eat protein before the sweet will also ensure you will not overeat.

Focus on the fun – It’s easy to be food focused around the holidays because, well, food is everywhere you turn. If you change your focus to fun and festivities and celebration and cheer then you might stop thinking about the dessert table looming in the corner. After all, the holidays are about spending time with friends and family and making memories.