December 2025 - Sweetpotato Speak

MANAGING DIABETES HOLIDAYS during the

By Sarah Schlichter, MPH RDN Registered Dietitian for NCSC

The holiday season is quickly approaching, and while it can be a joyous time with friends and family, it can also be a challenging time for people with diabetes, and those struggling to manage blood sugar levels. The good news is that with a few intentional strategies, it is entirely possible to enjoy your favorite holiday dishes, while also prioritizing health and blood sugar levels. As with any time of year, one meal will never make or break a diet. Health is made up of habits that accumulate over time. Hence, even in these busy holiday times, focusing on consistent healthy habits will be more powerful than what you choose to eat at one meal or snack. Furthermore, we know that being too restrictive can lead to overeating, so keeping a flexible mindset can be a helpful reminder that there is room for your favorite foods.

Build a Balanced Plate Making a “balanced” plate with all of the macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fat) is one of the best things that people can do when managing diabetes to ensure more stable blood sugar levels for longer. To do so, aim for about ½ your plate to be made with non-starchy veggies, ¼ plate with lean protein, and the remaining ¼ of your plate decorated with complex carbohydrates, like grains, sweetpotatoes or beans/lentils. These complex carbohydrates are important sources of fiber, and several other micronutrients. Sweetpotatoes also offer potassium, magnesium, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Note: The ratios of macronutrient groups may vary depending on weight, metabolic goals, exercise and other things, but the Diabetes Plate Method can be a great starting point.

Here are some tips on managing blood sugar over the holidays.

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