The temptation to have rich food will always be there during the festive season. But there is always a safe way for people with diabetes to enjoy the spirit of the festival.

Here are some diabetes friendly tips:

Prepare for the day

Eat low-carb meals. If you are planning to enjoy savories and sweets, then you can reduce carbohydrates in your diet with some simple tips. So instead of potatoes and peas eat non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and peppers, substitute rice with quinoa, skip pulpy fruits like bananas and eat low glycemic foods overall.

Blood sugar test : Be sure to check your blood sugar both before and 2 hours after you enjoy festive foods and share your blood sugar reading with your doctor to keep a check on your blood sugar level.

Keep yourself hydrated : Drink plenty of water and avoid aerated drinks and binge drinking.

Choose grilled : baked food instead of fried food. If you are on a calorie-controlled diet, then opt for healthy Diwali snacks like roasted chivda or baked gujiya.

Eat in moderation : Enjoy your sweets and savouries but in small quantities and make correct food choices suggested by your doctor.

Have plenty of salads during festive meals : This ensures that the cravings for fatty fried food are satiated and it is easy to avoid these harmful fat rich foods with ease. Add fresh fruits and vegetables to make newer types of salads and add to the nutritive value of the meal.

Increase your physical activity : Take the stairs instead of the lift, walk to meet your friends and relatives, participate in some dancing during Diwali celebrations. These easy, everyday activities help burn a lot of calories.

Do not be tempted to stay up : Although the festive season calls for late night gatherings and fun-filled times with friends and relatives, avoid staying up till very late as it could interfere with your metabolism. Make sure you get good 6-7 hours of sleep so you can continue to participate in the festivities without compromising your health.

Do not skip your medication : It becomes all the more important to stick to your medicines while you enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

This article is validated by dietitian Geeta Shenoy (BSc - Dietitics / Nutrition, Post Graduation Diploma in Dietetics, Registered Dietician /Nutritionist, Sports Nutritionist, 29 years of experience), Previously Geeta Shenoy was associated with S. L. Raheja Hospital, All India Institute of Diabetes.
Disclaimer: Information provided is void of any representation and warranty as to the reliability, accuracy, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy or suitability of the information provided and is not a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment for medical conditions, actions, applications of medication. For personalized medical advice consult a doctor or other appropriate medical professional . Always seek advice from physicians/ doctors for queries regarding any medical conditions.