Don’t let your dietary restrictions get in the way of festive fun
No matter what holidays you celebrate, they more than likely include food. Lots of fantastic food! UH Registered Dietician, Shelly Slavens, said the holidays can be both depressing and overwhelming for people with diabetes. To take off some of the stress, Slavens recommends:
- Plan ahead. Slavens uses the example of her great aunt’s homemade crescent rolls. She says they’re so delicious she waits for them all year. To make sure she sticks to a balanced diet, Slavens skips other starchy dishes, and maybe even passes on the potatoes, just so she can enjoy a roll.
- Don’t skip meals. Slavens says make sure you show up to a dinner party starving. You’ll probably eat more than you would have if you hadn’t skipped breakfast and lunch.
- Add exercise. Take the dog for a walk. If the weather is nice, play outside with the kids.
- Don’t replace food with liquid calories. Slavens says sharing a drink can be social. So keep it small and sip.
- Bring a healthy dish to share. Who knows? It could be so delish it starts a new holiday tradition.
Make 2023 the year to take control of your health. Call 816-404-CARE (2273) to make an appointment in primary care.