Being diabetic is not easy. And it gets particularly more difficult over the holidays. Our family gatherings revolve around food. And it seems there is a holiday treat at work nearly every day. Helping diabetics over the holidays can be a heartfelt goal. But, sometimes it is done in the wrong way and that can sabotage good plans.
Being diabetic for almost 20 years now, I witness all kinds of reactions to my disease. People push me to cheat “just this once” or they try to help me eat what is right. Some even prepare specific diabetic meals. But, most diabetics know what needs to be done to stay in control of their blood sugar levels. Sure, we may cheat sometimes. It is never good to be made to feel you hurt someone’s feelings over not eating their feasts.
How can you help a diabetic over the holidays?
- don’t push them to cheat. I am at the point that I get physically ill (nausea followed by a later hypoglycemic episode when I cheat). You do not know what effects going off their eating ritual will have on them. Let them decide. Hospitality is nice, but sometimes it can be deadly.
- don’t call attention to their disease. Diabetics know what is good or not for them. It is awkward to be at a feast and have attention brought to the fact that you should not be eating much of what is placed there.
- don’t try to prepare diabetic and non-diabetic dishes. This is especially kind of you but not necessary. We can manage our choices. We do it on a daily basis.
- if a loved one has diabetes, be aware of how difficult it may be for them at this time of the year. Don’t plan all your holiday activities around food.
Diabetics need to also step up and help themselves here. Try to avoid concentrated sweets as much as possible. If you do feel the urge to cheat, keep it minimal. Remember to watch the carbs. Even if it is not sugar laden, carbs can really drive up the blood sugars. Try to stay on or start your exercise routine. It is certainly not time to slack off.
All diabetics should have the means of checking blood sugars at home. If there are any symptoms, check the sugar. If you caved into a holiday carving, check your sugar to see what effect it has had.
At this time of the year filled with joy and food, it is quite possible to stay healthy. Wishing all a happy Thanksgiving and holiday season!
Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2015 Linda Girgis, MD, FAAFP
