Tips to ensure a diabetic friendly Diwali this year.

Diwali is just around the corner and the food and festivities have already spread in the air. With the all the binge-watching and loads of yummy food around, it’s hard to keep a count on the calories. This becomes even more difficult when you are a diabetic patient. Keeping your sugar levels in control can be quite a challenge but that just doesn’t mean that you have to give up on the festive sweets! This is one of the biggest myths we have to quash down!
If you suffer from diabetes and do want to enjoy Diwali without compromising or allowing yourself a cheat day, here are some things you should keep in mind:

Keep something to snack with you

As a diabetic patient, this is one of the most important things to ensure that blood sugar levels are maintained at all times. For that, it is important to eat regularly, something which can go for a spin during festivals. Hence, even if you are traveling, ensure that you have bite-size munchies with you which would ensure that sugar is in check.

Eat instead of drinking

Diwali means getting an invitation to card parties where one can be easily tempted to have a glass or two of wine or alcohol. However, diabetic patients should ensure that they drink in moderation, with protein-rich foods to supplement them.

Make up for the heavy eating with exercise

Festivals are an easy excuse to skip your regular workout. Look for ways to include a little bit of exercise during the day, like walking or yoga, which can be easily done. This also ensures that you stay active and energised throughout the day.

Look for healthier options

While it is extremely impossible to resist the temptation to have a bite or two, overdosing on sweets can be very harmful for diabetic patients. Even if you do not have diabetes, it is never okay to have too much of sweets. If possible, keep a lookout for healthier options and alternatives available in the market.

Add natural sweeteners

With the number of servings of tea, coffee and sweets you just cannot avoid, it is always recommended to make alterations to your food. Instead of using sugar, choose natural sweeteners like jaggery or cinnamon which add the sweetness without the calories.

Have a compensatory meal/ Plan your meals

Diet plays a very important role in managing your sugar levels and around the festivals, it is very possible to mess it up. If you know you are going to have an elaborate meal, plan your day accordingly. Have smaller meals beforehand so that you balance your diet without taking a toll on your health.