Manage Holiday Foods When Living with Diabetes

Preparing holiday meals can be challenging when living with diabetes. Here are some simple tips to prepare for and manage the holidays.

Plan ahead meals and snacks.

Invited to a party? Offer to bring a healthy dish along.

Make sure to eat breakfast and continue eating meals and snacks regularly throughout the day. Fasting before a big meal may affect your blood glucose levels negatively.

Be aware of how many servings of high carbohydrate/starchy foods you eat. Stuffing, bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, and corn are foods fitting into this category. Eat smaller portions.

Make sure to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet. Raw, grilled, or steamed fruits and veggies are a great source of vitamins and minerals, are low in fat, high in fiber, and may help you feel full longer on fewer calories.

Minimize finger foods packed with calories and carbs and instead try fresh choices like veggies and hummus.

Avoid high-calorie drinks. Instead, choose water, unsweetened beverages, and coffee and/or tea without cream or sugar. Staying hydrated makes you feel fuller and is good for you.

Limit or avoid alcohol. Alcohol, especially on an empty stomach, can lower blood sugar. Make sure to talk with your healthcare professional about whether it is safe to drink alcohol.

Physical activity is an important part of managing diabetes. Walking keeps you moving and on track with your goals. It is a fun healthy activity you can do with friends and family.

Don’t be hard on yourself if you overeat or get off track. Instead, look ahead, problem-solve, and devise a plan that gets you on the path to healthier eating. Meet with a Registered Dietitian.