Take the Challenge
It’s a challenge at the holidays to make healthy food choices when so many delicious, rich foods are being served. Remember, the holidays are a time for family and fun. Don’t focus just on food.
Offer to bring your favorite diabetes-friendly dish to the dinner. The hostess will appreciate that. Drink in moderation. Alcohol in all forms is packed with carbs and calories. Opt for sugar-free mixes.
Eat a healthy snack early in the day before the big dinner. Take sensible portions and avoid dishes that are heavy with sauces, butter or gravy.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month
Type 2 & YOU
Our bodies change our food into glucose for energy. Insulin helps glucose get into our cells. Diabetes develops if the body does not make enough insulin, does not use insulin the right way or both.
The most common kind of diabetes in older adults is Type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can contribute to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness, nerve damage and circulation problems that lead to amputation.
Take Control
If you have diabetes, you know it’s challenging and important to control glucose levels:
Take your medicines as prescribed
Make healthy food choices and get daily exercise
Get your eyes and kidneys checked each year
Care for teeth and gums and see the dentist twice each year
Get the A1C test at least twice a year to check your average blood glucose levels
Protect your skin, check your feet and watch your cholesterol and blood pressure
Traveling? Take Care of Your Diabetes While Traveling
Pack twice the amount of diabetes supplies in case of travel delays
Keep snacks, glucose gel or tablets with you in case of glucose drops
Keep your health insurance cards and emergency phone numbers handy
Carry or wear your medical ID that says you have diabetes
Remember to adjust your medicines with time zone changes as needed
Pack a glucagon emergency kit if you use insulin and have all syringes clearly marked with the pharmaceutical preprinted label that identifies it and in the original pharmacy packaging
Place all diabetes supplies in carry-on luggage and keep medications and snacks at your seat for easy access. Don’t store them in overhead bins.
Thanksgiving is the time to remember how many blessings we have. Be sure to be grateful.
Some of our favorite foods are served at Thanksgiving. With so many delicious choices, it’s hard sometimes to save on calories. Here is a quick comparison of food choices for the holiday that will help you!
Happy Turkey Day!
Watch your calories!
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