Are you living with diabetes and worried about maintaining stable blood sugar levels during the festive season? Don’t fret! In the following article, we will provide you with essential tips that diabetics should adhere to during festive occasions. Managing your blood sugar levels can be challenging, especially when the festive season tempts you with an array of mouth-watering dishes and delightful desserts. It becomes crucial to be mindful of your dietary choices and prioritise your health during this time. With Ganeshotsav just around the corner, here are seven straightforward tips to effectively manage your diabetes:
Also Read: Expert Tips For You And Your Family To Eat Right And Manage Diabetes
Keep these dos and don’ts in mind for diabetes diet during festivals:
1. Do plan your meals in advance:
Festivities often tempt people to neglect their health and dietary needs, but diabetics cannot afford such negligence. While it may seem restrictive, having a well-defined meal plan is essential for diabetics. The more they know about what and how much they consume, the better they can manage their blood sugar levels. Seek the guidance of an expert if necessary to understand what to include or exclude from your diet.
2. Don’t skip meals:
The holiday hustle and bustle may consume your time, causing you to overlook the importance of regular meals. Skipping meals can significantly impact the blood glucose levels of diabetics. Therefore, no matter how busy your schedule, prioritize mealtime and avoid skipping meals.
3. Hydration is crucial:
Keep yourself hydrating by sipping water throughout the day maintaining consistent water intake is vital. Drinking water not only contributes to overall health but has also been linked to reduced calorie intake, and lower sugar, salt, and cholesterol levels. It can also help curb your cravings for sugary beverages that pose risks to your well-being. Avoid sugary drinks like soft drinks and canned juices, Fresh juices, as they can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar. Instead, opt for low or sugar-free alternatives such as water, unsweetened tea, coffee, herbal teas, and Lemon water (without sugar) to quench your thirst. Alcohol consumption can compromise blood sugar management, making it unsuitable for diabetics. Provide non-alcoholic options like soups and fresh buttermilk to cater to everyone’s needs.
Also Read: How to Control Diabetes: 10 Tips to Maintain Blood Sugar Level
4. Do monitor your meals:
Be mindful of your food choices and avoid overindulging, no matter the occasion or celebration. Your health should always take precedence, even during joyful moments.
5. Embrace healthy fats:
Include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like almonds, walnuts, avocados, and olive oil in your daily diet. These beneficial fats help maintain cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Diabetics may need to follow specific dietary guidelines, such as a High-Fiber or low-fat diet.
6. Exercise consistently:
Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes daily. Walking briskly is a good form of exercise. Prioritize physical activity whether it’s a regular day or a festive occasion. This is especially crucial for diabetics, as regular exercise enhances insulin sensitivity, effectively regulates diabetes, and plays a significant role in maintaining optimal blood sugar levels while reducing the risk of heart disease and nerve damage.
7. Avoid sweets made from refined flour:
Regardless of whether it’s a festival or not, diabetics should steer clear of sweets made with sugar. It’s also advisable to avoid artificial sweeteners. Instead, opt for a natural sweetener like Stevia powder to prepare the sweets as it does not compromise taste. Additionally, switch to whole-grain flour and avoid refined ingredients like Maida (refined wheat flour) and sugar when preparing sweets. Whole-grain flours from grains like jowar (sorghum) can be used for healthier options. Excessive intake can lead to elevated blood sugar levels.
About the author: Fauziya Ansari is a dietitian at Apollo Spectra Mumbai.
