Your holidays are probably in full swing by now. It’s easy to just “go with it” and overeat–after all it’s the holidays. But how will you feel? Most people don’t feel good about themselves when they overindulge.
And when you have diabetes, you can feel even worse when your blood sugar is out of control.
Here are my tips for enjoying the holidays and feeling good!
1. Look at a calendar and circle the days that you have a special event. Most people have something special to go to 5-6 times during the holidays. The rest of the days stick to your usual schedule as much as possible. Having regular meals, getting enough exercise and sleep and taking time to relax each day goes a very long way in controlling your sugar. I know, it’s really hard during the holidays.
2. Have a plan for special events. Decide ahead of time what and how much you’re going to eat and drink. Will you have only one drink and switch to water? Will you peruse the table and have what you really want but only one plate? Will you fill half your plate with vegetables? People who have a plan have good results.
3. Don’t skip meals to “save up” for the party. Your blood sugar would likely be like a roller coaster, dropping too low and then going to high. You will not stand much chance of eating moderate portions if you arrive hungry. Have a healthy breakfast and lunch, and maybe even a healthy afternoon snack.
4. Recruit an exercise partner or support person. It’s much easier to actually keep your body moving when someone is waiting to join you. Ask your family members to support you in your plan to stay active. If they won’t, do it anyway.
5. Enjoy the season. Find ways to enjoy each other that is not focused on food. And remember you do not have to be perfect. But being good will really help your health and you’ll feel in control.
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