Holidays Can Be Stressful for Diabetics
http://www.foodndrinks.net/articles/2579/1/Holidays-Can-Be-Stressful-for-Diabetics/Page1.html
Ben Welch
Acai Guru researches and writes articles about the Acai berry, and also writes articles about Monavie. Learn more about Monavie, the Acai Berry and Acai Juice by visiting the Monavie site. By Ben Welch
Published on 02/26/2009
While most people are anticipating the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday with excitement, many people with diabetes are filled with anxiety. The stretch from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day can be very difficult for people with diabetes.
While most people are anticipating the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday with excitement, many people with diabetes are filled with anxiety. The stretch from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day can be very difficult for people with diabetes. Not only does the stress arise from all the extra, carbohydrate-filled treats that seem to be everywhere you go, but also from feeling all alone in the battle against high blood sugar.
Thanksgiving Day itself can be extra difficult. After all, the day is all about food. Thankfully, turkey is naturally low-carb. But almost every other dish on the Thanksgiving table is filled with troublesome items. Starchy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, candied yams, buttery rolls, and pumpkin pie can send a diabetic's blood sugars soaring faster than you can say, "Happy holidays." Making matters worse is the fact that many diabetics are the only person in the family who is facing such joy-killing restrictions.
According to a Harris Interactive survey from 2006, only one out of two people with diabetes indicated that his or her family and friends actually take diabetes into account when planning holiday meals. Imagine facing a full Thanksgiving spread and being the only person in the room who has to worry about avoiding too many carbohydrates. It's not difficult to understand why so many diabetics throw up their hands and throw out the eating plan for the day.
Online social networking sites specifically created for people with diabetes are helping many diabetics manage the holidays better this year. First, these online communities help individuals to feel that they are not alone. Just knowing that someone else out there is dealing with the same challenges can be greatly comforting. But finding online sympathy is only the beginning.
In recent days, members of diabetes online communities have been sharing ideas for a healthier Thanksgiving meal. Did you know you can make low-carb "mashed potatoes" out of cauliflower? Or that sweet potatoes have 30 percent fewer carbs than regular potatoes? One member suggested giving up certain carbs (such as a plain old roll) to make room in the diet for her favorite: mom's pumpkin pie. Another member shared his tip for staying on track is simply to take small portions and eat slowly. Not only is the meal more enjoyable, but also taking it slowly gives his body a better chance at maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
Message boards have also been filled with reassurance and support for one another. Chances are every diabetic is going to make a mistake or two over the holiday. But with the help and support of good friends, each one knows he or she can get back on track quickly.
Thanksgiving Day itself can be extra difficult. After all, the day is all about food. Thankfully, turkey is naturally low-carb. But almost every other dish on the Thanksgiving table is filled with troublesome items. Starchy mashed potatoes, sweet corn, candied yams, buttery rolls, and pumpkin pie can send a diabetic's blood sugars soaring faster than you can say, "Happy holidays." Making matters worse is the fact that many diabetics are the only person in the family who is facing such joy-killing restrictions.
According to a Harris Interactive survey from 2006, only one out of two people with diabetes indicated that his or her family and friends actually take diabetes into account when planning holiday meals. Imagine facing a full Thanksgiving spread and being the only person in the room who has to worry about avoiding too many carbohydrates. It's not difficult to understand why so many diabetics throw up their hands and throw out the eating plan for the day.
Online social networking sites specifically created for people with diabetes are helping many diabetics manage the holidays better this year. First, these online communities help individuals to feel that they are not alone. Just knowing that someone else out there is dealing with the same challenges can be greatly comforting. But finding online sympathy is only the beginning.
In recent days, members of diabetes online communities have been sharing ideas for a healthier Thanksgiving meal. Did you know you can make low-carb "mashed potatoes" out of cauliflower? Or that sweet potatoes have 30 percent fewer carbs than regular potatoes? One member suggested giving up certain carbs (such as a plain old roll) to make room in the diet for her favorite: mom's pumpkin pie. Another member shared his tip for staying on track is simply to take small portions and eat slowly. Not only is the meal more enjoyable, but also taking it slowly gives his body a better chance at maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
Message boards have also been filled with reassurance and support for one another. Chances are every diabetic is going to make a mistake or two over the holiday. But with the help and support of good friends, each one knows he or she can get back on track quickly.