Managing Blood Sugar During the Holidays


The holiday season is filled with gatherings, treats, and rich foods, making it a challenging time for anyone managing blood sugar levels. For seniors with diabetes or prediabetes, staying mindful of food choices during this time of year is important, but it doesn’t mean missing out on the festivities. With a few thoughtful strategies, it’s possible to enjoy the season’s flavors while keeping blood sugar balanced.

Start with a Balanced Plate

Holiday meals often include plenty of carbs and sweets, so a balanced plate can help manage the impact on blood sugar. Aim to fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or salad greens, which are low in carbs and provide fiber. Add a lean protein like turkey or chicken, and limit starchy sides like mashed potatoes or stuffing to smaller portions.

In retirement communities, many residents choose this approach to enjoy their favorite dishes in moderation. Filling up on nutrient-rich vegetables and protein first helps balance any higher-carb foods that come with holiday meals.

Enjoy Treats Mindfully

Holiday sweets and desserts are often hard to resist, but a little goes a long way when it comes to sugar. Instead of skipping desserts entirely, try sharing a slice of pie with a friend or taking a small portion. This way, you can savor the seasonal flavors without a big blood sugar spike.

Resident Mary, for example, loves pumpkin pie and has found that enjoying a few bites satisfies her craving without affecting her blood sugar too much. It’s all about finding a balance that lets you participate in the holiday fun while keeping health in mind.

Stay Active to Help Balance Blood Sugar

A short walk after meals can help lower blood sugar by encouraging your body to use glucose more efficiently. Even a gentle 10-15 minute walk around the neighborhood, or a bit of movement after eating, can support blood sugar balance.

A lot of assisted living communities offer holiday strolls or group activities to help residents stay active and socialize. These short bursts of movement can be both enjoyable and beneficial, especially after a big meal.

Keep Hydrated and Watch Portions

It’s easy to overlook hydration during holiday gatherings, but staying well-hydrated is essential for everyone, especially for those managing blood sugar. Drinking water before a meal helps prevent overeating and supports digestion. Additionally, keeping portions in check can make a big difference. Instead of large servings, try small samples of various dishes to avoid overloading on carbs.

Drinking water throughout the meal is a simple habit, and it helps create a more mindful eating experience. Many residents find this strategy allows them to sample all the holiday favorites without worrying about their blood sugar.

The holidays are a time to celebrate in assisted living Boise, and with a few mindful choices, it’s possible to enjoy the season without compromising blood sugar management.

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