The holidays are filled with family gatherings, savory meals, and sweet treats. As such, diabetes management is more important than ever this time of year. Consider the following ways you can still indulge in your holiday favorites while staying healthy. 

4 Tips for Holiday Diabetes Management

1. Practice Portion Control

You don’t have to skip your favorite holiday dishes just because you have diabetes. Make sure you eat healthy portions of different types of food. Opt for lean pieces of turkey meat, minimize sugary items like cranberry sauce and soda, and make the biggest part of your plate nonstarchy vegetables like corn, carrots, and beans.

2. Monitor Blood Sugar

While you may think you’ll be OK if you just pass on those pies and cookies, remember that all those carb-loaded dishes can also turn to sugar if you eat too much. If you know your activity level will be lower than normal and you’ll be indulging in foods like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and bread, monitor your blood sugar frequently for spikes and dose your insulin accordingly.

3. Assess Your Insulin Needs

Depending on how frequently you typically use your insulin, evaluate when and how much you need based on your meal schedule during the holidays. If possible, plan to eat around your normal schedule so you can stick to the same insulin regimen you need. However, if you’re eating more food earlier in the day, you may need to add an extra dose of insulin.

4. Get Active

Staying active is a crucial part of diabetes management — and this goes for the holidays, too. Even going for a morning or afternoon walk can help stabilize blood sugar levels and keep you away from unnecessary snacking. If you can’t get out for a walk, play a game of ball or tag with little ones in the family.

Whether you need medical, dental, or behavioral health care services, the team at Peninsula Community Health Services in Soldotna, AK, have the skills and equipment to treat your family. From regular medical checkups to diabetes management, they provide all the care you need. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (907) 262-3119.