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Holiday foods on table

Published October 29, 2024

The holiday season is here, which often means gathering with family and friends around the table to share a meal.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, it can feel overwhelming to manage your diet while trying to enjoy company and make memories with loved ones.

Our dietitians share five tips to savor the holidays without the pressure or fear of overindulgence. You can start celebrating with our Crustless Pumpkin Pie with Almond-Pecan Streusel! It’s a great go-to dish to close out any holiday meal with only 25 grams of carbohydrates—about half that of a traditional slice of pumpkin pie.

Tip 1: Make a plan.

Write a shopping list with all the nutritious ingredients you’ll need to prepare stress-free dishes you like to enjoy during the holidays.

Tip 2: Avoid skipping meals.

Sticking to your normal eating schedule is important so you don’t overeat. Skipping meals also causes irregularities in your blood glucose levels.1

Tip 3: Bring a Carb Smart dish to the holiday party.

Knowing how many carbohydrates are in your meal gives you control and confidence. Our chefs and dietitians have worked closely to offer you a variety of Carb Smart sides to choose from.

Here are a couple of our favorites for the holidays:
Fall Festival Vegetables
Red Potato Ratatouille With Pasta Fresca

Tip 4: Don’t forget dessert.

It is perfectly okay to eat dessert, but be mindful of the portion size and when you last ate. It’s all about balance. If you are planning to partake, consider the carbohydrates consumed during your last meal and the amount of carbohydrates in the dessert.

Tip 5: Move your body, even if it’s a short walk.

Small movements can change blood glucose levels, so it is important to walk with family or friends after celebrations to keep your blood glucose levels stable. Physical activity can be different for each person, so always make sure to check with your healthcare provider first. And be sure to maintain your exercise routine during the holiday season.

There isn’t one perfect way to manage diabetes, but it is helpful to have a plan. Try these five tips this holiday season and year-round.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email our team of dietitians.

For the love of you.

Choosing how you eat is uniquely personal. It’s about your needs, your preferences, and your goals. As your wellness ally, we’re in your corner with fresh ideas, recipes, and wellness icons that make it easier to shift toward wiser food choices. It’s all about you, at your very best.

Sources

1Weisenberger, Jill. The Dangers of Skipping Meals When You Have Diabetes. EatingWell. March 20, 2018.