December 2025 - Sweetpotato Speak

DIABETES MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Be Mindful of Alcohol and Blood Sugar Staying hydrated throughout the day is another important step in managing blood sugar. Water is the best option for hydration. Alcohol can have an impact on blood sugar, too. According to the American Diabetes Association, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is actually one of the biggest concerns when drinking alcohol. To counteract this, try to avoid alcohol on an empty stomach, and instead pair that drink with your meal or a hearty snack. For non-alcoholic versions, choose simple swaps, like seltzer and fruit, or half-sweetened versions of cocktails or mocktails. Don’t Forget About Movement and Stress As we focus on healthy habits in general, try to make time to prioritize your movement habits, too. A short walk (even 10 minutes) after a meal can make a big difference in bringing blood sugars down, while also aiding in heart health and helping with stress management. If longer workouts don’t seem feasible, take short movement breaks when decorating for the holidays - have a dance break with kids, go for a short walk before or after eating, or prioritize that morning workout. While the holidays are exciting and full of memories, they can also be a source of major stress with everything involved. Remember, stress can impact blood sugar ( Source listed below), so finding ways to control the stress can make a big difference in how you feel. Practice a few different strategies for those stressful situations, such as a simple breathing technique, a quick walk, positive thinking, or a progressive muscle relaxation technique. In conclusion, the holidays are meant to be enjoyed, and one meal or snack can’t make or break your health. Keep up with your consistent habits, day in and day out, to feel your best this holiday season.

Have a Strategy for Parties and Buffetts Remember, the point is not to feel deprived during the holiday season. There is room to enjoy your favorite comfort foods and treats. A good habit to get into is eating a protein-rich snack before going to a party. This helps stabilize your blood sugar beforehand, avoiding those low blood sugar dips that then lead to sugar cravings. Protein also helps to fill you up, preventing you from showing up overly hungry. With this proactive change, you can then make more mindful decisions about what you choose to eat because you aren’t ravenous. Rather than eating everything, try to choose your favorites. If enjoying some dessert, pair it with some protein or fat, like nuts, cheese, or the meal itself, rather than enjoying the dessert only. This will help lessen any blood sugar spikes. Bonus tip: You can also take some dessert home to enjoy for later or the next day to avoid the “all or nothing” mindset!

SOURCES https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9561544/

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