Cookies, cakes, candies, hot chocolate and eggnog are all seasonal specialties. There’s almost no avoiding them this time of year, and although it’s nice to indulge on occasion, too much can send blood sugar skyrocketing.
The holidays can pose a real challenge for managing blood sugar. So many of the traditional tasty treats are loaded with sugar that it warrants a warning.
Some of the strategies you can employ to enjoy the holiday treats while managing blood sugar include:
Portion Control: This is a big one. It’s easy to head back to the fridge or cookie jar four or five times per day. To remove the temptation, try limiting yourself to one trip per day. If you can’t do that, then don’t keep the treats in an accessible spot.
Take Extra Care with the Rest Of Your Diet: Although it won’t offset the snacks, making sure you’re taking extra care with the rest of your food choices can at least ensure you’re getting plenty of fiber and healthy nutrients in-between snacks.
Budget Snacks: Set times and places to enjoy your snacks – make it special. Maybe it’s a glass of eggnog while you’re decorating your home or watching a favorite movie, then again at a Christmas party. Select your spots to avoid over-indulging.
Stay Active: Activity can help move sugar from your blood to your muscles and improve glucose absorption. Sticking to a daily exercise routine can help keep blood sugar under control, and it might be extra beneficial if it takes place right after a snack.
Reach for Nutrient-Dense Foods When You’re Hungry: Avoid seeking snacks to tame hunger pangs because it’s a very slippery slope. When hunger hits, reach for some nuts, fruit, or veggies. Maybe even a meal. Save the sweets for a bit of flavor after eating something with value.