How Diabetics Can Survive the Holidays

Holiday food, alcohol, and added stress can make the holiday period a difficult time for diabetics. Temptations abound, so here are some tips for avoiding them, put together by Cecilia Sauter, who’s Director of the University of Michegan Health System Diabetes Education Program.

1. Plan Ahead. If you’re invited to a party, call ahead and ask what’s being served. Then you can follow your meal plan by bringing what you may need.

2. Keep Counting Your Carbs. Hen it’s time to eat, look at the overall meal and ask yourself “Which foods contain carbs? What do I really want to eat?” Portion control and balance will help you stay within your limits.

3. Sugar-free Isn’t Necessarily Carb-free. When shopping, buy the real thing, and check the label.

4. Check Your Blood Sugar Before Cocktails. Alcohol can cause low blood sugar, and lull you in the wrong direction. If you plan to drink, eat some food containing carbs first – better still, a full meal.

5. Ensure Someone Knows You Have Diabetes. A ‘hypo’ attack may appear like too much to drink; if in doubt, check your blood sugar.

6. Take a Walk After Dinner (or Lunch). This will have the best effect on your raised blood sugar.

7. Reduce Stress in Advance. Think about stress management strategies that have worked for you in the past, and use them. Finding time to listen to relaxing music with your feet up can help a lot.

If you’re responsible for preparing meals for the holidays, visit the ADA website’s special pages. And then have fun!