New Delhi: The festival of lights that Diwali is must surely not turn into a nightmare as there is always the hidden risk of eating too much meetha and eventually spiking blood sugar levels. For diabetics, celebrating festivals with sweets often comes with a lot of ifs and buts as desserts have an incredibly high glycemic index which is near deadly and not to forget, they are irresistible in taste as well. So if this year, the idea of laddus, kaju katlis, and soan papdi are too much for you to take, then we have some simple suggestions to give the taste buds a treat this festive season while also managing blood sugar levels well.
Excessive sugar this Diwali can not only cause weight gain but also a sugar rush and energy crash in diabetics. Balance is key, as per doctors. Read on to know what you can do this festive season to stay healthy in the process.
- Portion control: Even if it is a Diwali festive binge, the key is always portion control. This festive season, diabetic or not, make sure that you do not overindulge in festive snacks and sweets. Instead of going for a whole piece, eat small bits only. This will help keep sugar intake low.
- Plan well: This Diwali, make the right dietary choices well in advance to dodge the risk of any repercussions later. This way, by planning, you can prepare low-calorie and sugar-free traditional dishes that have the right amount of meetha and in the right form.
- Hydration: Make sure that you drink lots of water even on Diwali to keep blood sugar levels in check. Drinking water helps one feel full and also reduces the temptation to binge on unhealthy snacks. You can also rely on herbal teas to stay healthier and nourish the body with antioxidants.
- Exercise: If you do not feel like hitting the gym ahead of Diwali, it is advised to go for a morning walk or jogging session instead. This helps counteract the negative effects of eating too much sugar. Walking and dancing are some of the best low-intensity workouts that improve insulin sensitivity in diabetes patients.
- Do not skip meals: Skipping meals is a huge mistake, especially for diabetics. This often results in overeating which is far worse later with a lot more risks involved. Therefore, one must be regular in eating all meals and also rely on a balanced plan including proteins, fats, fibre, and carbs in the right portions. This is key to sugar management.
- Healthy snacks: If you can dodge the option of sugar altogether, then go for nuts and seeds as they are well-suited for a diabetes-friendly diet. Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios offer proteins, healthy fats, and also fibre which will regulate sugar well. You can also eat fruits to keep it healthy.
