The month of November is often full of laughter, holiday fun, and lots of family time! For seniors with diabetes, this time of year can be a bit more worrisome because of the lack of healthy eating options. They are often concerned about not burdening others with cooking for them, but also how a carb-loaded meal(s) may make them feel afterwards and for days to come.    

November is Diabetes Awareness Month! This important highlight can certainly give diabetics and their families the tips they need to keep their health a priority during the holidays. Getting together with family and out of your routine can be fun, but it can also make your day-to-day management of diabetes a little more difficult than normal. Not to worry, we’re here to help make it easier on you. 

Healthy Eating Tips

Good nutrition is one of the key factors that makes the day-to-day management of diabetes time consuming but incredibly important for many patients. When it comes to monitoring your diet over the holidays, it’s important to follow these simple guidelines. Try to limit your carbohydrates each day. This does not mean you cannot have your favorite dessert, but try splitting it in half and sharing with someone or saving for later. Instead of a sugary breakfast and a sugary snack, replace one with a low carbohydrate option like eggs or nuts. Also, increase your consumption of lean proteins like poultry or fish, and include healthy fats in every meal. Do your best to stay away from sugary beverages like lemonade, or your niece’s special holiday drink.

Need a simple holiday cheat sheet for your family gatherings? We’ve got you covered:

• Lean protein: beans, poultry, fish, and leaner cuts of beef.
• Good carbohydrates: whole-grain foods, legumes, and sweet potatoes.
• Fiber: fruits, legumes, oatmeal, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Healthy fats: avocados, nuts, olives, and canola oil (good for higher heat cooking).
• Fruits and vegetables: Green vegetables, spinach, asparagus, and broccoli. As well as fruits like tomatoes, grapes, apples, and oranges.

Good nutrition can be easy and delicious! Check out our favorite diabetes-friendly recipe below that will be a smash at any holiday party this year!

Prevention and Condition Management 

Managing diabetes goes beyond a healthy diet, no matter how important that is. It should also be managed in tandem with your medication, as well as consistent exercise. Without the proper care and prevention, your diabetes can become worse or develop new symptoms such as: 

• Increased risk for infections and injuries
• Accelerated muscle loss
• Damaged kidneys
• Increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease
• Increased risk for heart attack or stroke
• Vision loss
• Persistent pain
• Nerve damage

While that all sounds really scary, as long as you’re working with your doctor and staying on top of the preventative and condition management measures they recommend, you’re likely to keep your diabetes under control. With support from your family and Endocrinologist, you can do this!

Keep your Endocrinologist in the Loop

It’s important for anyone diagnosed with diabetes to not only be a patient of an Endocrinologist, but to see them regularly. Keeping your Endocrinologist in the loop during the holidays is vital. 

Not sure what an Endocrinologist is? They’re a specialist that works with glands and the hormones they produce. These specialists are key to a diabetic’s care because they can help you manage the metabolism you’re working with. They can also help you learn how your body changes food into energy. This is an especially important doctor to consult with during the time of year when holiday treats and vacations happen. They can not only help you understand your body and how it uniquely works, but they can help provide you with the freedom to enjoy what you want within the parameters of your condition. 

At Clinical Care Medical Centers, we’re here to help you transform your healthcare experience by providing the best diabetic care in South and Central Florida with the specialists you need. To meet our Florida Endocrinologists and Nutritionists at any of our 25 locations to help you on your healthy eating journey, call us today at 800-831-4424.

If going to an in-person appointment isn’t manageable for you right now, not to worry! On top of ensuring all our facilities are following strict COVID-19 prevention protocols, Clinical Care Medical Center’s top-rated Endocrinologists and Nutritionists are also available over Telehealth. 

Spicy Chili Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

• Preheat your oven to 400. 
• Remove the stem of the Portobello Mushrooms and scrape the inside with a spoon to make room for the filling.
• Next, make the filling. In a pan on the stove, saute in olive oil: half an onion diced, garlic to taste, poblano or jalapeno peppers, a handful of fresh cherry tomatoes, and 1 can of black or pinto beans. Add salt and pepper to taste. 
• Top with your favorite herb: cilantro, thyme, or parsley. Stuff the veggie and bean mix into the portobello mushrooms. 
  • Top with a little mozzarella, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Bake for 20 minutes. Enjoy!  

*This is a great way to use the leftovers!