Managing Diabetes During the Holidays

Managing Diabetes During the Holidays

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November 18, 2013

Managing Diabetes During the Holidays

Having diabetes shouldn't stop you from enjoying holiday celebrations and travel. Preparation is the most important step in managing diabetes during holiday travel and festivities. Know what you'll be eating, how to enjoy a few traditional favorites while sticking with a healthy meal plan, and how to pack necessary supplies for a trip, and you're ready to celebrate! Feasts and Parties Before you go, take these steps to ensure you stick to your healthy meal plan. Eat a healthy snack early to avoid overeating at the party. Ask what food will be served, so you can see how it fits into your meal plan. Bring a nutritious snack or dish for yourself and others. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit the amount and have it with food. Click for more tips to avoid overeating and to choose healthy foods at parties or holiday gatherings. Traveling for the Holidays Leaving home to visit friends and family means changing routines. Take care of your diabetes while traveling. Check blood glucose (sugar) more often than usual, because changing your schedule can affect levels. Remember Your Medication Pack twice the amount of diabetes supplies you expect to need, in case of travel delays. Keep snacks, glucose gel, or tablets with you in case your blood glucose drops. Carry medical identification that says you have diabetes. Keep time zone changes in mind so you'll know when to take medication. See more tips.

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For more information: 

• CDC's Division of Diabetes Translation
• National Diabetes Education Program
• Healthy Eating During Winter Gatherings for People With Diabetes [PDF - 43 KB]
• Tasty Recipes for People with Diabetes and Their Families