Healthy Holiday Plans

BY: Josh Kail

Dealing with diabetes? Then you should know that the holiday season can bring about some challenges. With large helpings of wonderful home cooking, odd meal times and wide assortments of dessert, it can be frustrating to partake while managing your blood glucose levels. Reminding family members that it's not that you can't eat a big slice of grandma's famous pie, it's that you choose not to in order to keep your body healthy can be emotionally draining.

But following these tips can help you to have a festive, healthy and enjoyable time with family.

Plan ahead: With all the wonderful holiday food to choose from, be sure to have your plate planned out in advance to avoid letting your taste buds take over. This includes desserts. Find out recipes and carbohydrate content of foods ahead of time. You might find that you can fit in a little sliver of every favourite holiday dessert into your meal, and still stay on track.

Stay on track: Keep your carbohydrates spread out throughout the day; don't save them all for one meal. Remember that your body likes consistency with carbohydrates to process the glucose efficiently and work properly with your medications. Pack up some leftovers and enjoy the holiday meal again the next day.

Fill 'er up: Keeping blood glucose and weight management goals in mind, try not to go to any holiday parties or events on an empty stomach. That will only increase your chances or overeating and losing track of carbs and calories.

Boo to booze: If you choose to drink during the holidays, please be safe with carbs, calories, medication and general wellness. The recommendation for men is two drinks (one drink for women) per day. One drink is equal to one beer, 4 oz. of wine or 1 oz. of spirits. Some alcoholic beverages contain carbohydrates, especially when blended with sweet mixers such as margaritas or soda-based drinks, so they need to be included in your meal plan.

Be sure to wear medication identification, and never drink on an empty stomach. Also remember that alcohol does not mix well with most medications. So please check with your healthcare provider before drinking. Limiting your alcohol intake will save you calories and have less of an impact on blood glucose levels.

Have fun: Diabetes is manageable. With proper planning, this holiday season could turn out to be your best ever. Keep track of your diet and you'll be Òho ho ho-ingÓ all season long!