If you or a loved one are one of the millions of people who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, there are many reasons to manage your condition properly. The holiday season can be a difficult time for those with diabetes, but following some simple steps can help you manage your condition while enjoying the festivities.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to properly regulate blood glucose (blood sugar) levels. This leads to blood sugar that is too high. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas may not produce enough insulin or insulin resistance may cause the body’s cells to respond poorly to insulin and not take in as much sugar as they should.

If diabetes is not properly managed, it can impact many different systems in the body. Uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, neuropathy, kidney disease, diabetic retinopathy and Alzheimer’s disease.

Tips for Controlling Diabetes During the Holidays

Managing diabetes during the holidays is much the same as managing it during the rest of the year. With some simple planning, you can take part in all the holiday fun while caring for your health. Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)*:

• Make sure to check your blood sugar as you normally would.

• Keep your mealtimes as consistent as possible to keep your blood sugar steady. If meals will be later than normal, eat a small snack during your normal meal time.

• Bring a healthy dish to share if you’re attending a party or event.

• If you plan to have a dessert, eat fewer carbs at other meals.

• Don’t skip meals. This can make you more likely to overeat later. Try to fill half your plate with vegetables.

• Avoid or limit alcohol, and avoid sugary mixers. Drink plenty of water.

• Stay active! Even a 10-minute walk helps.

If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor about additional lifestyle strategies or medications that may help you during the holidays. At Touchstone Communities, we help patients and residents manage the symptoms of diabetes with nutrition, physical activities and more. We offer short-term care, long-term care, memory care and rehab for seniors. For more information, contact us today.

* https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/healthy-eating/5-healthy-eating-tips-holidays.html