LIVING WITH DIABETES DURING FESTIVALS
What’s the deal with festivals?
Festivals are celebrated all over the world and are times of excitement, decorations, presents and ofcourse rich and delicious food!
Keeping off the goodies might just get a little difficult.
For people with diabetes, this surely is a testing time.
Be sure to have a good time, but don’t take any chances with your blood sugar levels.
Fasting vs. feasting
Festivals mean fasting, feasting or both and can make you lose control over your blood sugar levels
For people with diabetes, there is a thin line between fasting and feasting
- Fasting for long hours can cause dehydration and Hypoglycemia.1
- Feasting without control can raise your blood sugar levels.1
Cut on calories not enjoyment
Festive season means a variety of food and a lot of socializing with family and friends.
It is quite possible that you may be less cautious about dieting.1
- Let go of the sugar rich and deep fried foods (e.g. mithais, samosas and kachoris). 2
- Choose foods rich in fruits and nuts over those which are too sweet or oily.2
- If you still don’t want to miss out the fun, opt for low fat snacks and sweets prepared with artificial sweeteners.3
- Use low-fat or skimmed milk while preparing the puddings and other dairy products.4,5
Watch your drinks
When choosing your drink, keep in mind the calories that it can add up.
- Choose beverages that have diet soda or water1
- Stick to drinking sugar free, diet drinks or fresh fruit juices which have lots of natural sugars2
- Avoid having alcoholic drinks.3 If you must drink alcohol, have in moderation and along with food4
- If you drink alcohol, do check your blood glucose before going to bed. Have a bedtime snack to avoid low blood sugar overnight1
The non-vegetarian spread
During many festivals, non-vegetarian food rules the tables.1 Beware of your fat intake!
- Avoid eating red meat1
- Eat food preparations that are less oily1
- Choose to eat meat or chicken trimmed of fat and skin2
- Instead of frying, roast or boil the meat while cooking it1
Rules of fasting in diabetes
Be it any type of fasting and for any reason (religious or other), you may need to go for long hours without eating any food. And if you are suffering from diabetes, this can take a toll on your blood sugar levels.
- Plan your routine way before starting the fast.2
- Avoid having high sugar, high fat and high calorie food after completing the fast as these can raise your blood sugar levels.1
- Have fiber rich foods like wheat, semolina, beans, brown rice, fruits, vegetables and salads before and after fasting.2
- Exercise during times when you are not fasting and avoid strenuous exercise.2
- Stop your fast if you feel dehydrated, sick, or notice signs of high or low blood sugar.2
Manage stress
Festivals can be stressful too! Prevent the build-up of stress as it can shoot up your blood sugar levels1
- Pamper yourself – take a relaxing shower, read a book and find some time for yourself1
- Exercise regularly to reduce your stress levels1
- Get plenty of rest and sleep to avoid being tired1,2
- Don’t force yourself to attend every event2
- Meditate to relieve stress3
Stay active
Festivals are times of enjoyment with friends and family. Make the most of this to stay active.
- Find ways to get out and get moving
- Play outdoors with your kids or grandchildren
- Go for walk with your friends
- If you plan to shop, park a little further away or take an extra lap or two around the mall
- Dance to the festive music
Aim for 30 minutes of activity, 5 days a week
Medicine alert!
However busy you are, it is important to test your blood glucose and take your medicines on time.
- Check your blood sugar levels frequently to catch-up with fluctuations1,2
- Do not skip your medicines3
- If you are on insulin, talk to your doctor about change in dose if any3
Manage your blood sugar levels during festivals with these simple hacks
Managing your diabetes is in your hands. This festive season, use these hacks and be a little witty with your choices.
- Talk to your friends and family members about helping you to maintain a strict plan2
- Choose healthier cooking methods like roasting or grilling over frying1
- To eat less, have water before eating and eat slowly 2
- Indulge in doing things that keep you away from food2
- Ask your relatives to gift you gadgets or accessories instead of sweets3
- If you are visiting friends, carry a dish made by you to cut down on calories and carbohydrates2