Tips for Managing Diabetes During the Holidays

The holidays bring ample opportunities to enjoy sweet treats and rich foods. While many people can enjoy an extra slice of pie, it’s a bit serious and complicated if you are managing diabetes.

But if you are living with diabetes, you don’t have to miss out. Nikunj Patel, M.D., FACP, endocrinologist at Ocean University Medical Center, gives four simple tips to help manage diabetes during the holiday season.

Make a Plan to Be Consistent

“It’s a natural human tendency to indulge in food in times of celebration,” says Dr. Patel. Having a plan will help you stay in control: 

• Fill half your plate healthy with veggies and salad, a quarter with carbs and a quarter with protein.
• Choose a smaller plate to avoid overeating.
• Plan to eat at consistent times during the day to stay on schedule and reduce the risk of blood sugar spikes.

Check Your Glucose Levels

Let your blood sugar numbers be your guide. Dr. Patel suggests using a continuous glucose monitoring device linked to an app on your phone. Because the device automatically tracks your glucose, you don’t have to take time away from your celebrations.

Avoid Forbidding Foods

If you tell yourself that you can’t have certain foods, it can create anxiety and unnecessary stress. Instead, allow yourself to have a treat—just watch your glucose and find a balance for enjoyment. “You can have indulgent foods in moderate amounts,” says Dr. Patel. 

Don’t Get Side-Railed by a Slip-Up

Occasionally, despite our best intentions, you can slip up and overdo it. In these moments, watch your glucose numbers closely and adjust your medications as needed until your number returns to normal, Dr. Patel says. 

However, if you have a number higher than 300, or your higher numbers do not improve despite close monitoring and medication adjustments, call your doctor. “Usually, it’s possible to manage these situations with communication with your doctor, but if it doesn’t improve, you need to go to the emergency department,” says Dr. Patel.

How Hosts Can Help Guests Managing Diabetes

If you are hosting a holiday celebration, be mindful of any guests who have diabetes or other health conditions. Dr. Patel suggests offering a balanced array of foods, so people with restrictions have enough to eat, but you don’t have to avoid offering indulgent treats.

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our source: Nikunj Patel, M.D., FACP
• To make an appointment with an endocrinologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about endocrinology and diabetes services at Hackensack Meridian Health.