With lots of good food during the holidays, a local endocrinologist said those with Type 2 Diabetes need a plan to control their intake during the holiday season.
Cookeville Regional Medical Center Endocrinologist Shirisha Vallepu said people with Type 2 diabetes tend to struggle during the holidays due to the amount of unhealthy food typically consumed. Vallepu said keeping a meal routine is the best way to navigate the holiday season.
“Staying balanced, you know, eating around the usual times, you know, and not having long gaps between the meals, you know, because that can lead to low blood sugars, and also sometimes taking long gaps between those meals will cause overeating later,” Vallepu said.
Vallepu said she recommends carrying snacks if you could potentially miss meals due to traveling. Vallepu said she also advises people to only eat foods they really love rather than eating everything in front of them
“Start maybe with the protein because that is going to make them feel full, and you know, eat vegetables before eating those high-carb dishes because that will help to maintain their sugars,” Vallepu said. “Maybe choosing small portions for the desserts.”
Vallepu said those with Type 2 Diabetes should avoid drinks with sugar and drink plenty of water instead. Vallepu also recommends going on 15-20 minute walks before or after each meal, as exercise can help.
Vallepu said not managing your diabetes during the holidays can diminish your holiday season.
“Watch for high blood sugars,” Vallepu said. “Symptoms, you know, can be like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain. If they have not been drinking enough fluids, you know, definitely there is a chance of dehydration, and that can also end up into high blood sugars, which can cause, you know, ketoacidosis.”
Vallepu said diabetics should also take their medications on a routine schedule.
Vallepu said diabetics should enjoy the holidays but also be mindful of what they are doing.