Managing Diabetes During the Holidays

The holidays are all about spending quality time with our family, friends, and loved ones and… indulging in those oh-so-irresistible cookies, bars, and treats! However, for many individuals with diabetes, this festive season can be a tricky balance between enjoying the merriment and managing their health.

While it might feel like an overwhelming task to navigate the festivities while also keeping blood sugar in check, it’s entirely possible with some mindful strategies:

1. Moderations is key – Enjoying your favorite holiday dishes is part of the joy of the season, but it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes. Try healthier versions of the holiday sweets you love, like the cranberry-coconut oatmeal cookies we feature below!
2. Monitor blood sugar regularly – It’s easy to lose track of your health routines amid the celebrations, but sticking to your monitoring schedule is vital. If you’re attending a party or an event, consider setting reminders to check your levels and have your medications or insulin readily available.
3. Stay active – With the colder weather and busier schedules, physical activity might take a back seat during the holidays. However, even short walks or quick exercises can help regulate blood sugar and contribute to overall well-being.

In addition to its effects on blood sugar levels and overall health, diabetes has also been associated with an increased risk of hearing loss. Studies have suggested that individuals with diabetes have a higher likelihood of experiencing hearing problems compared to those without the condition. It is believed that the elevated levels of blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves in the ears over time, impacting their function. Make sure you consult your Audiologist for regular hearing monitoring.

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration. By incorporating these strategies and staying mindful of your health needs, individuals with diabetes can fully participate in the festivities while keeping their condition under control. Embrace the warmth of the season, share moments with your loved ones, and savor the holidays while prioritizing your health.

Cranberry-Coconut Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ⅔ cup rolled oats
• 3 ½ tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes, crushed
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped dried cranberries
• 2 teaspoons melted butter
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon lemon extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
2. Beat the egg in a medium bowl. Gradually add sugar, stirring to combine. Add oats, coconut, cranberries, butter, salt, vanilla, and lemon extract; stir until thoroughly combined. Drop the dough by the teaspoonful onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 1/2 inches apart. Spread each dough mound into a circular shape using a fork dipped in cold water.
3. Bake until lightly browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.