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Contributed by Anna Bertorelli, MBA, RD, CDE |
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1. |
Plan ahead. The more you can plan ahead and anticipate, the better you can plan for good diabetes care | |
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2.
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Minimize changes to normal routine. |
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| 3. |
Minimize changes to normal routine: |
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| a. | Eating habits | |
| b. | Activities | |
| c. | Stress levels | |
| d | Surroundings | |
| 4. |
Talk to Family, Friends, and Teachers before Special Events |
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a. |
Remind friends, family members and teachers to be sensitive – be specific with your expectations | |
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b. |
Extra parties almost always means extra carbohydrates |
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c. |
Plan ahead and adjust insulin requirements (work with your health care team) |
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| d. |
Provide alternative foods and/or snacks |
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| 5. | Focus on activities other than food and sweets | |
| a. | Plan on board games or card games | |
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b. |
Catch up on a good book; write letters or cards; call a family member or friend | |
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c. |
Watch a favorite holiday movie... Anna's Choice: "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Miracle on 34th Street" (1994) | |
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d. |
Adopt a family or person to buy gift(s) for; collect food for churches, schools or shelters; gather used coats, gloves and other warm clothing form needy. | |
| 6. |
Check Blood sugars more frequently |
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a. |
Remember food, activity and stress all contribute to swings in blood sugar levels | |
| b. | Expect the unexpected - don't panic | |
| c. | Remember - there are no "bad" blood sugar readings | |
| 7. |
Stay Active |
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a. |
Exercise can improve blood sugar control and is critical to good diabetes management | |
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b. |
Plan a family walk or active game after a meal; go ice skating, sledding or tubing; have a snowball fight or build a snowman; Caroling anyone? | |
| c. | Good for entire family | |
| 8. | Have fun and celebrate | |
Hints
for Happier Holidays
1117 Douglas Ave ~ North Providence, RI 02904
Phone (401) 383-4500 ~ Fax (401) 383-4846