This post was written by Mona Smith, RDN, Parkview Diabetes Services.

'Tis the season! The holidays are a wonderful time of year spent catching up with family and friends, but managing your diabetes during the festivities can be stressful. The added special events can prove challenging while maintaining your blood sugar goals, especially when food is one of the main focuses of the season. However, a little extra planning and preparation can help you stay on track. To assist you in holiday-proofing your meal plan, try a few of these eating tips:

• Carbs count: Get familiar with the carbohydrate count of your favorite holiday foods before the holiday arrives.
• Bring your own: Take a dish to share that you know works within your meal plan just in case what you are expecting to eat is not available.
• Timing is everything: It’s important to watch the timing of your meals. You may find yourself eating at odd times during the holiday season. Try eating a small snack at your regular mealtime to prevent a low blood sugar reaction if you cannot eat on time.
• It pays to be picky: Be selective with your food choices and focus on dishes that are "special" or that you only have this time of year.
• Size matters: Eat smaller portions, especially if you want to try several foods, but remember to keep your total carbohydrate intake similar to a regular day.
• Focus on veggies: Lean on non-starchy vegetables to fill you up. Enjoy a salad, broccoli, green beans, spinach or cauliflower, all great options low in carbohydrates and calories.
• Be aware: If you plan to enjoy an alcoholic beverage during the holidays, be sure to limit the amount you will be consuming. Remember, alcohol not only affects your blood sugar levels but also contains empty calories. It’s best if you decide how many drinks you will be having before you begin eating.
• Sugar swaps: Try choosing fruit instead of a sugary dessert. You could also try topping desserts with fruit instead of whip cream, ice cream or other sugary carbohydrates, which will spare you some carbohydrates and fat. 
• Get moving: Don’t just sit there, get up, dance or take a walk after eating. It will help lower your blood sugar if it is has gotten too high.

Remember, planning and preparation are key to enjoying the holidays and all the delicious food it offers. The Parkview Diabetes Services team wishes you a happy, healthy holiday season!