National Diabetes Month
Happy Wellness Wednesday! It’s that magical time of year again when the temperature drops and there are delicious treats around every corner. But wait… if you’re watching your sugar intake or navigating the world of diabetes, you might be wondering, “Can I join in on the feast without a blood sugar rollercoaster ride?”
Fear not, because we’re here to sprinkle some holiday magic your way! Today we’re navigating sweet treats in the most fun, flavorful, and fabulous way possible. Get ready to unwrap a bundle of tips, tricks, and tasty tidbits that’ll have you celebrating with confidence and a healthy dose of happiness.
Sugar: A Threat to Your Health
Eating too much added sugar can be a huge threat to your overall health increasing the risk of diabetes, higher blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, heart disease, and fatty liver disease. According to Harvard Health, “In the American diet, the top sources are soft drinks, fruit drinks, flavored yogurts, cereals, cookies, cakes, candy, and most processed foods. But added sugar is also present in items that you may not think of as sweetened, like soups, bread, cured meats, and ketchup.”
According to the CDC, “Americans 2 years and older keep their intake of added sugars to less than 10% of their total daily calories. For example, in a 2,000 calorie diet, no more than 200 calories should come from added sugars (about 12 teaspoons).”
Sugar and Diabetes
Have you ever wondered why sugar seems to play a different tune when it comes to those who are navigating the world of diabetes? You see, when someone without diabetes enjoys a sugary treat, their amazing body goes to work, producing insulin to help escort that sugar into the cells where it can be used for energy. It’s like a perfectly choreographed dance party – sugar in, insulin grooving, and energy levels soaring.
But for people with diabetes, this dance can have a few awkward steps. Their body’s insulin production might not be as coordinated, which means the sugar can’t enter the cells as smoothly. It’s like trying to get into an exclusive party without the right pass – some bouncers (insulin) might not respond!
The result? Blood sugar levels might rise higher and stick around longer, creating a not-so-great party for their overall health. That’s why keeping tabs on sugar intake and finding those delicious diabetes-friendly alternatives is key to rocking the blood sugar balancing act.
These options aren’t just delicious; they’re designed to keep your blood sugar levels happy too. So, go ahead and savor the season’s flavors while embracing your health goals!
- Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken: Elevate your holiday table with a succulent herb-crusted roast chicken. Packed with flavor, protein, and a hint of festive magic, this dish is sure to be a hit.
- Baked Salmon with Dill: Treat yourself to the heart-healthy goodness of baked salmon drizzled with fresh dill sauce. It’s a melt-in-your-mouth option that’s as elegant as it is nourishing.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuff vibrant bell peppers with a medley of lean ground turkey, quinoa, veggies, and herbs. This colorful creation is a showstopper that’s low in carbs and high in yum!
- Vegetarian Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: For a meatless marvel, indulge in stuffed portobello mushrooms loaded with spinach, cheese, and a burst of seasonal flavors. It’s a vegetarian delight that won’t disappoint.
- Slow-Cooked Turkey Breast: Give your taste buds a treat with a slow-cooked turkey breast that’s seasoned to perfection. Juicy, tender, and oh-so-satisfying – this dish is a classic made with a diabetes-friendly twist.
- Zucchini Noodles with Pesto: Swap traditional pasta for zucchini noodles and toss them in a vibrant pesto sauce. This light and refreshing option will leave you feeling satisfied without the carb overload.
Sugar Friendly Scrumptious Holiday Sweets
Get ready to celebrate the season with desserts that are as delightful as they are diabetes friendly. From tangy to chocolaty, these options will keep your holiday spirits high while keeping your health goals in check.
- Berry Parfait Delight: Layer up fresh berries with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of crushed nuts for a delightful parfait that’s bursting with colors and flavors.
- Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding: Dive into the cozy season with a pumpkin spice-infused chia pudding. Creamy, spiced, and diabetes-friendly – it’s the perfect holiday treat.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Creamy avocado meets rich cocoa in this decadent mousse. You won’t believe it’s avocado – and that’s the delicious secret!
- Apple Cinnamon Oat Crumble: Warm up your holiday with a comforting apple cinnamon oat crumble. It’s a dessert that’ll make your taste buds dance while keeping your blood sugar in check.
- Fruit Salad with Minty Twist: Mix up a colorful fruit salad and give it a refreshing twist with a drizzle of minty freshness. It’s a vibrant and guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Coconut-Almond Energy Balls: Whip up some coconut-almond energy balls that are not only delicious but also a perfect on-the-go snack. A little bite of heaven that’s diabetes-friendly too!
- Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Dip sweet strawberries in rich dark chocolate for a dessert that’s both elegant and oh-so-satisfying. The perfect blend of flavors that won’t spike your blood sugar.
