Travel, changes in sleep and social schedules, lavish meals that include sweets, and potential personal and financial stresses can make life even more difficult during the holidays if you have diabetes.
The holiday season brings family and friends together around the table Amidst the joy and fun, people with diabetes still need to manage their blood sugar. Some simple strategies, provided by mysugar. media, in an article supervised by endocrinologist Olga Monashnenko, can help you face the changes in your routine calmly and with pleasure.
Here are 10 simple tips to avoid stress and enjoy the holidays.
1. Don't worry about breaking your routine!
A general piece of advice often given to people with diabetes is to follow a specific However, the holiday season is no ordinary time. The key is to be flexible and adjust your diabetes treatment plan as needed.
2. Work on acceptance!
One of the most difficult aspects of life for people with diabetes is accepting the diagnosis. Once you accept that diabetes is something you will deal with “confront” it will become much easier. Regardless, you will need to make diabetes-related choices, such as allowing yourself to eat a small piece of dessert on special occasions but not regularly, to stay healthy.
3. Learn to say “no”!
The holidays are a special time of year that people should enjoy, and moderation is key. Learn to say “no” when necessary: whether it's a cocktail (when you feel it might be unnecessary) or participating in activities that can cause stress.
4. Focus on pleasure!
The holidays offer a variety of foods that you look forward to all year long, and missing out can set you back. If you feel the urge to eat a slice of pie, do it! The emotional joy you'll feel is much better for you than the stress and anxiety associated with holiday restrictions.
5. Share the holiday spirit your way!
When you go to a party, bring a “safe,” low-carb meal that you like. By sharing the holiday spirit, you can be sure to have something useful in case you can't (or don't want to) eat a lot of other things.
6. Let go of the guilt!
If you are a “beginner” with diabetes or are the parent of a child with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, try to let go of the guilt (and not just for the holidays). You shouldn't feel guilty about doing things that bring you/your child joy this time of year. Be gentle with yourself! It's reassuring to know that over time, once you adjust to diabetes, you can handle almost anything.
7. Avoid hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia!
While enjoying the celebration, it's important not to overdo it and keep safety in mind. Whether it's limiting (or cutting out) alcohol, taking medication, or controlling portions, the goal is to stay within your target glycemic range.
8. Exercise!
Physical activity plays an important role in diabetes management. Plus, it can help you manage stress. Try to maintain an appropriate level of physical activity throughout the holidays. Try yoga as a tool to overcome holiday stress.
9. Fill your holiday plate with protein and fiber!
Don't forget the importance of fiber and protein at every meal, even during the holidays. This will help balance your blood sugar levels, avoid harmful blood sugar spikes and overeating.
10. Don't worry about having to do everything “right”
Try to remember that you don't have to do everything “correct”. Your long-term health won't be affected by a few holiday parties.
The holidays can be stressful. Remember that the most important aspect of your care is protecting your own well-being and health. Focus on strategies that will help you get the most out of the holidays! Seek support from family, friends and your doctor. Prioritize what's most important and think about how those choices impact diabetes control. And finally, don't forget to find joy in this season
Ask your doctor if these approaches can help you!
