The holidays are a time for family, friends, and of course, festive drinks and toasts. But if you are prediabetic or have been diagnosed with diabetes, you might be wondering what's safe for you to drink. Here are a few tips from Senior Helpers Collinsville on how you can enjoy the holiday season without compromising your health.
Stick to Low-Sugar Drinks
If you are prediabetic or have diabetes, limiting your sugary foods and drinks is essential. That includes sticking to low-sugar options when it comes to holiday alcoholic beverages. Look for drinks low in calories and carbohydrates such as light beer, wine, or seltzer water with a dash of fruit juice.
Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach
We all know that drinking on an empty stomach can lead to a quicker buzz—but did you know that it can also cause your blood sugar levels to drop? If you are going to be drinking alcohol, be sure to eat a nutritious meal beforehand so that your blood sugar stays stable throughout the night. Planning ahead will also help you avoid making any poor food choices later on when you are feeling tipsier than usual.
Know Your Limit
This one is important for everyone—not just those with diabetes—during the holidays (or any other time of year). It's easy to get caught up in the moment and overindulge, but know your limit and stick to it. Enjoying one or two drinks is perfectly fine, but more than that could put your health at risk. So make sure you pace yourself and keep track of how many drinks you've had throughout the evening.
Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!
We cannot stress enough how important it is to stay hydrated when drinking alcohol—especially if you have diabetes. Alcohol can dehydrate your body, so be sure to drink plenty of water in between each alcoholic beverage. And don't forget to eat some salty snacks, like pretzels or nuts, to help replenish the electrolytes you lose when you drink.
Skip the Sugary Toasts
Unfortunately, many holiday toasts are loaded with sugar. If you are prediabetic or have diabetes, it's best to avoid these sugary drinks altogether. But that doesn't mean you have to sit out on the fun! There are plenty of ways to make a toast that is both festive and diabetes-friendly. For example, you could try seltzer water with a splash of cranberry juice or sparkling wine with a twist of lemon. Just be sure to avoid drinks that are high in sugar or calories.
Wrapping Up
You do not want to let your diabetes control your life, but you also don't want to put your health at risk. By following the tips above, you can enjoy the holiday season without compromising your health.
Senior Helpers Collinsville provides a wide range of services in Alton, Bethalto, Cottage Hills, East Alton, Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, and the surrounding areas, including help with managing diabetes. If you or a loved one needs assistance managing diabetes or any other health condition, contact us today. We would be happy to schedule a free in-home consultation to assess your needs and develop a care plan that is tailored to you.