Holiday celebrating can also mean a lot of food - and not always the healthiest kind. With all the sweat treats, cheese platters and heavy side dishes, managing your diabetes and enjoying the holiday season can seem at-odds with one another. The good news is, with a little preparation, you can stick to your diabetes management plan and make the most of your holiday season.

Set Goals for Managing Your Diabetes During the Holidays

Make a list of the things you'd like to do accomplish this holiday season to help keep yourself accountable and what you really want top of mind. You can refer back to your list to keep yourself on track. Consult with your Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE), doctor and the rest of your health team.

Make Smart Holiday Food Choices

• Don't skip meals. It can be tempting to save your appetite for a big meal, but make sure you eat regularly. Consistent eating keeps your blood sugar stable, prevents you from overeating and sets you up to make healthy choices.
• Trade off between carbs and sweets. If you have one, save the other for next time.
• Bring a healthy dish to your holiday parties or gatherings. You'll know you'll have at least one healthy item you can fill your plate with and other guests will be grateful for something to balance their meal too!
• Stay away from alcohol. Drinks can be full of calories and sugar, so try to minimize how much you drink.

Get In Your Exercise

Getting outside can be a welcome break from all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, reduce stress and keep you on track with your health goals. Walk around your neighborhood to see the holiday decorations and lights, or take a detour through the mall or around your neighborhood shops as you shop for gifts. Even small things add up! Invite your family and friends to go with you, they'll enjoy spending time with you and getting active too.

Don't Forget to Enjoy Your Holiday Season!

Don't be too hard on yourself! It can be easy to get down on yourself when you feel like you have gone off your routine, but the holidays are really about enjoying time with your family and loved ones and leaving room for the occasional splurge with foods you really love. If you don't stick exactly to your plan, don't beat yourself up, simply get back up and try again. It's about progress and doing your best, not perfection.

If you'd like more information on how to stay healthy during the holiday season, check out our 7 tips for staying healthy with diabetes during the holidays.

Disclaimer: Diabetic neuropathy symptoms may vary from individual to individual. Please consult with your doctor before trying something new.

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