One thing is always certain around the holidays: Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, most of us will be tempted to consume foods we should avoid on a diabetic diet. For those trying to manage their diabetes, the holidays are no time to take a vacation from a diet that works to keep the blood glucose level balanced and not spiked. 

Diabetics can enjoy all the typical menu items of a Thanksgiving dinner if they plan accordingly and understand the importance of balance. Keep these helpful tips in mind as you give thanks:

1. Think ahead. Are you hosting dinner? If so, you’re at an advantage! Consider healthy ways to prepare your main and side dishes. How can you keep the great taste of a meal but reduce the fat, sugar and carbs? Salad and vegetables are no-brainers, but make sure the ingredients you toss in it are nutritious. Most of your guests won’t share your diabetic diet, but don’t be afraid to tweak your recipes here and there.  And, hey, everyone should be eating more whole grains and fruits, so be sure to serve them. Now, if you’ll be a guest at dinner, go forth with a strategy.
    
2. Strategize. Eat before you go to dinner. That way, you’re not famished and ready to grab the first unhealthy thing you see. You can count on your favorite staples to be on the table – macaroni and cheese, stuffing, mashed potatoes, buttered rolls, all high-carb foods that will affect your sugar level. Be prepared to know what you will eat before you grab a plate. Roasted turkey breast is a great, low-fat protein, but skip the gravy, which is high in fat and carbs. If you must do gravy, drizzle lightly. Set portion-size limitations on yourself – a tablespoon of candied yams, two bites of sweet potato pie, a half of a small roll.
    
3. Handle the sweets. This is where it may be a good idea to bring your own dessert. There’s bound to be holiday cookies, cupcakes and pies, goodies that may be too rich and sugary for you, even in small portions. Carry such healthy desserts as angel food cake and fruit cups to fulfill your cravings. Unsweetened cranberry sauce is also an option.
    
4. Burn off the calories. After a few hours of heavy eating, plan to go for a walk to burn off the extra calories. In fact, fit in as much physical activity as possible during the holiday season. Make it fun – go skating or skiing. Exercise helps stabilize your blood sugar level.
    
5. Ask for help. If diabetes is new to you, talk to your doctor or nutritionist about how to have a healthy, but fulfilled Thanksgiving dinner. There’s probably a diabetic food grocery list for the holidays that can be put together for you as a guide. It’s vital that you know how to balance carbs and sugar so that you stay healthy and, at the same time, avoid feeling deprived when it’s time to dig in!