I worked at the doctor’s office the day before Thanksgiving. When I walked into the waiting room, I immediately noticed everyone looked anxious and distracted. Usually I teach in a large group and talk individually to anyone who has personal questions afterwards. Yet, I could tell by the expression on my clients faces, they were not in the mood to talk about food. I commented jokingly to them, “I know everyone is not ready to hear from me the day before Thanksgiving, but I will be back next week and you better be ready!” Many of them started to chuckle at me. I think they were relieved by my statement.

The holidays are a challenging time for the health profession. I always notice my fitness classes are smaller during the winter months. I see more candy and cookies at work. I also notice more people appear stressed out or depressed. All these factors make sound health choices hard for the common person but for individuals with diabetes adequate blood sugar control is particularly tough. Here are some guidelines to help you make it through the season:

1. Reduce stress as much as possible.

Stress increases blood sugar. Many people with diabetes often forget this fact. The combination of holiday shopping and party planning can leave the calmest person frazzled. If you find yourself feeling this way, find activities such as reading and listening to music to calm you down. Consider shopping online or making gifts if shopping at the mall is too harrowing. Ask for assistance from friends and family if you need help planning parties or events. Do not feel ashamed to ask for aid.

2. Try to sneak in exercise daily.

Maybe you do not have the time to drive to the gym but there are plenty of calorie burning activities for the winter season. You can shovel snow, chop wood or rake leaves to burn calories. Ice skating is also popular this time of year. Cleaning your home is cheap and also reduces stress. Any activity you do for half an hour will improve your blood sugar for the entire day.

3. Pick healthy party snacks.

Parties are particularly challenging when trying to control calories or carbohydrates. Visit the vegetable platter instead of dessert cart at holiday events. Try to limit yourself to one alcoholic drink. Hit the dance floor after your meal to burn off the holiday dinner.

I hope these tips are helpful to you during this holiday season. Take care and email at askard@stablebloodsugar.com if you have any questions. Allison