Caring Connection | winter 2006

Healthy Holiday Eating With Diabetes

Eating too much during the holidays can stretch your waistline and make it difficult to manage your diabetes. The good news is that you can enjoy the holidays in a healthy way. The American Diabetes Association recommends that you plan ahead for the holidays.

Get Creative

These simple changes to your favorite recipes can reduce fat and calories while keeping the flavor:
  • Use egg substitutes or egg whites (two whites per one whole egg).
  • When a recipe calls for oil or butter, try a fruit puree, such as applesauce, instead.
  • Use half the sugar called for in pie recipes, or sugar substitutes made especially for baking.
  • Use low-fat dairy products.

Change one ingredient at a time so that you know which changes you like best.

Party Planner

At holiday parties, make the best of your choices and cut back on portions:
  • Take only a sliver of your favorite desserts.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Eat a healthy meal before the party so that you do not overindulge.

When you bring a dish to share, remember that others are also watching their eating habits.