Holidays and Diabetes: Planning is Key to Enjoying Yourself
While the holidays can be a joyous time, they also can be a stressful time of year for some people. This can be especially true for those with diabetes.
Spending time with family and traveling can make it difficult to stay on your healthy routine. Eating out, lack of sleep and overeating can lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels and feelings of guilt.
Being prepared and planning ahead can help you enjoy the holiday season.
Here are 7 strategies for success:
- Get at least 6-8 hours of sleep each night.
- Pass on the eggnog and stick with water or water with fruit in it.
- Fill half of your plate up with veggies and don't go back for seconds.
- It will be tempting, but save room to sample only 1 dessert.
- Stay active. Make sure to move after eating a big meal. (Walking even for 10 minutes is great.)
- Limit alcohol to 1 drink a day for women and 2 drinks a day for men.
- Make sure to pack your diabetes medications, supplies, and equipment if traveling.
Resources
American Diabetes Association (ADA): What can I eat?
Centers for Disease Control (CDC): Five Healthy Eating Tips for the Holidays
American Diabetes Association (ADA): Get and Stay Fit