The end-of-year festivities, synonymous with culinary delights, can sometimes upset our eating habits.
This can make it difficult to maintain a healthy eating program, especially for those who watch their carbohydrate intake.
But the good news?
With the right strategy, you can not only make informed food choices, but also enjoy precious moments with family and friends to the full.
Plan to Enjoy
If you know that a festive meal will include rich foods, make proactive decisions:
- Eat a light, balanced meal before and after the party to avoid excess,
- Offer to bring a healthy dish that you enjoy and that others can enjoy too.
Enjoy in moderation and without guilt
Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on overall balance.
Holidays are a time for celebration, and the emotional and social aspect of eating is as important as the food itself. Eat mindfully, enjoy your favorite dishes slowly, savor every bite, and focus on the pleasure of sharing these moments with your loved ones.
Focus on Quality Carbohydrates
Choose complex, fiber-rich carbohydrates, such as vegetables, whole grains or legumes, to stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Limit processed and sugary foods, but allow yourself a small portion of dessert if you feel like it.
A balanced diet and a flexible approach will get you through this festive period with serenity and well-being.
What do you think?
Learn more about Pep2Dia to maintain a healthy glycemia!
Sources:
Effect of the holiday season in patients with diabetes: glycemia and lipids increase postholiday, but the effect is small and transient.
Jones AG, McDonald TJ, Hattersley AT, Shields BM.
Diabetes Care. 2014;37(5):e98-9. doi: 10.2337/dc13-2353.
Effects of health education on glycemic control during holiday time in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Chen HS, Wu TE, Jap TS, Chen RL, Lin HD.
Am J Manag Care. 2008 Jan;14(1):45-51.
PMID: 18197745
A prospective study of glycemic control during holiday time in type 2 diabetic patients.
Chen HS, Jap TS, Chen RL, Lin HD.
Diabetes Care. 2004 Feb;27(2):326-30. doi: 10.2337/diacare.27.2.326.
PMID: 14747208