Enjoying your favorite holiday meals while staying on track with your health goals is possible with a few strategies and a little planning.

At Mahaska Health, we are dedicated to helping you stay healthy. Here are 6 helpful tips to manage your blood sugar during the holiday season.

  1. Find healthier versions of your favorite holiday meals: You can find alternative options for your favorite food traditions. Websites like the American Heart Association prove plenty of festive options that keep your meals tasty while being diabetes friendly.
    Click the link below to view 10 Holiday Recipes from the American Diabetes Association:
    Slideshow: 10 Holiday Recipes Everyone Will Love | American Diabetes Association Or,
    Click the link below to view EatingWell’s Diabetes-Friendly Christmas Recipes:
    https://www.eatingwell.com/diabetes-friendly-christmas-recipes-7187037
  2. Focus on portion control: Keep your plate balanced by using a 9-inch plate and being mindful of portion sizes, especially with carbohydrates and sweets.
  3. Fill up on lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables: These foods can help you stay fuller longer and support stable blood sugars throughout the day.
  4. Look for fiber-rich foods: Fiber slows digestion, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes. Try incorporating whole grains, beans, and plenty of vegetables.
  5. Make time for movement: Walking, dancing or planning a scavenger hunt are fun ways to get moving.
  6. Stay hydrated: Drinking water regularly throughout the day can help you feel fuller and more in control of your food choices. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger, which may lead to overeating. Sparkling water and unsweetened beverages are great beverage options to help keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Eating Healthy this Holiday Season with Diabetes 1

Planning and mindful eating can help you enjoy the holidays without sacrificing flavor or your health!

At Mahaska Health, we believe in a patient-centered approach to diabetes care. Our team is here to empower you with the knowledge and resources needed to manage your diabetes effectively. Our dedicated diabetes educators, Lea Rice, RD, LDN, CDCES, and Nicole Palmquist, RDN, LD, CDCES, conduct counseling, teach classes, and lead support groups to assist those living with diabetes in our community, and help patients improve their nutritional health and overall well-being.

To schedule an appointment or learn more, call 641.672.3360.