Diabetic? Keep Your Blood Glucose Levels Stable During the Holiday Season
1- Test regularly.
Obtain your blood glucose levels in the morning. If they aren't between 70 and 130, check yourself. Are you eating properly or over indulging? Be honest and tweak your meal-plan for the day.
2. Take your meds.
As a diabetic, you won't function well without your meds. Why? Your blood glucose levels won't remain stable. So, don't forget your insulin or Metformin pill. Make sure that your medication remains a part of your daily routine regardless of what's going on during the holiday season.
3. Watch portion size.
Currently, the American Diabetic Association (ADA) condones the consumption of sweets in moderation. You can enjoy a slice of fruitcake or frosted Christmas cookies. Just watch your portion size. Stick to dietary guidelines and indulge only a couple of times a month.
4. Create special dishes.
If you're the kind of diabetic who likes to cook, create diabetes-friendly dishes for Thanksgiving and Christmas. You can keep your blood glucose levels stable during the holiday season in this way because you control your ingredients. Substitute Splenda for regular sugar. Trade whole-wheat flour for white flour. Modify traditional recipes into a more healthy form.
5. Boost up your exercise.
Since you'll probably consume more carbohydrates and sugar from October 31 and January 1, boost up your exercise. Walk an extra 15 to 30 minutes. Swim an additional lap around the pool. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. Make up for the change in your diet in order to balance out your blood glucose levels.
6. Eat your food consciously.
Whether you're a diabetic or not, eating food unconsciously always leads to trouble. Keep your blood glucose levels stable during the holiday season by not falling into this trap. Avoid noshing at potlucks or family gatherings without making a plate. Stay on top of what you put in your mouth and watch calories.
7. Ask family for extra support.
If you've just found out you're a diabetic, you'll need extra support around the holidays. You may not realize how challenging eating healthy will be and the effect this can have on you. For this reason, ask for support. Enlist a family member or attend a support group for cheerleading and emotional support.
Take the above 7 suggestions to heart and you'll enjoy the Thanksgiving and Christmas without feeling sick or ending up in the hospital. Diabetes is a serious condition that can damage your body, but you can control its affects through your lifestyle.
Published by Stephanie Modkins
Stephanie M. is a freelance writer who lives in the northwest. Her main goal is to write in a way that entertains, educates or uplifts readers. View profile
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