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The holidays are filled with joy, celebration, and — let’s be honest — a lot of tempting food. Between family gatherings, travel, and busier schedules that can complicate meal prep, managing your diabetes can feel challenging this time of year.
But with a few smart strategies, you can enjoy the season without sacrificing your health.
Our team of primary care providers at Maniya Health shares five tips to help you manage your diabetes during the 2025 holiday season.
1. Eat before you party
Don’t go to a holiday party or dinner on an empty stomach. Eat a snack or even a small meal before you go. This could be:
- A handful of nuts
- A piece of fruit with string cheese
- A piece of cheese and spinach rolled in a slice of turkey
- Edadame with soy sauce
- Cucumber wedges topped with chicken salad
This can help prevent overeating and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Once you’re at the party, start with lean proteins and veggies before moving to carbs or desserts.
2. Choose smart swaps
You don’t have to skip your holiday favorites entirely; try healthier alternatives instead. For example:
- Swap mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower
- Choose whole-grain rolls instead of white bread
- Try fresh fruit for dessert instead of pie
Small adjustments can make a significant difference in maintaining stable glucose levels.
Holiday meals often come with sugary desserts and carb-heavy sides, and if you’re not cooking, it’s hard to know the macros of each meal. Don’t be afraid to ask the host what will be on the menu.
If there won’t be anything suitable for your dietary needs, bring a side dish or entrée that won’t sabotage your health goals or blood sugar levels.
3. Walk after each meal
Even a short walk after a big meal can help your body use glucose more effectively. In fact, research shows that walking after a meal can lower your glucose levels more effectively than sitting or even standing.
The holidays are busy, but don’t let that keep you from your regular exercise routines. Beyond walking after big meals, aim for at least 20–30 minutes of movement a day, whether that’s walking, dancing, or playing outside with family.
4. Choose mocktails over cocktails
Dehydration can raise your blood sugar, and alcohol can interfere with your glucose control (especially if mixed with sugary drinks). It can even contribute to hypoglycemia when consumed on an empty stomach.
Choose water, sparkling water with fruit, or unsweetened tea most of the time.
Tip: Opt for festive, no-sugar mocktails instead of cocktails. For example, try sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice and a twist of lime, or mix unsweetened iced tea with fresh mint and orange slices. Both are refreshing, festive, and blood-sugar-friendly.
5. Monitor your blood sugar
During the busy season, it’s easy to let your routine slide, but resist the temptation to let your habits slide. Check your blood sugar regularly, take your medications as prescribed, and keep healthy snacks with you when traveling or shopping.
Enjoy the holidays and keep your blood sugar under control at the same time
You can absolutely enjoy the holidays while managing your diabetes. A little planning and mindfulness can go a long way in helping you maintain your health.
If you’re struggling to keep your blood sugar under control or need personalized guidance, the team at Maniya Health is here to help. Call our Hamilton, Robbinsville, or Hopewell, New Jersey, office to schedule an appointment today to create a diabetes management plan that works for you this holiday season and beyond.