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In recognition of November as “American Diabetes Month”, Andrew Rice, MD, of the Lovejoy Health Center reminds us to:
Put Down That Candy Cane!
 The winter holiday season is a time of joy to spend with family and friends. However, it is also a time with an increased chance of diabetic onset in senior adults. Today, approximately 18.3% (8.6 million) of the United States population age 60 and older have diabetes. Complications could include heart disease, stroke, vision loss/blindness, amputations and kidney disease. So take a look at these helpful tips to prevent and manage diabetes this holiday season:
Eating with Moderation:
The holiday season presents many tempting opportunities to eat too much or too often. The additional sugar intake leads to higher risk of diabetes, so try the tips below to keep a healthy and regular diet:
- Decide ahead of time what you will eat and how much, as well as how to handle social pressure. For example, practice a simple response such as “No thank you, I’m too full.”
- Fill your plate with vegetables, fruits, and fiber foods. Eat healthy foods at home to minimize cravings when going out.
- Reduce alcohol consumption to avoid extra calories and interference with medications.
Staying Fit and Active:
Enjoying the holidays does not mean taking a vacation from your daily exercises. Maintaining your existing workouts and adding the following extra activities are essential for prevention of diabetes:
- Park farther from stores and walk to the entrance. Power-walk while shopping.
- Take a stroll around your neighborhood to see the holiday decorations.
- Get involved in the festivities such as singing, playing music, and making ornaments to shift the focus away from food.
- Use a pedometer to record your daily number of steps, and challenge yourself to increase that number every day.
Taking Care of Your Body:
People with diabetes are more susceptible to injuries and infections to other body parts. During the winter holidays, pay special attention to the following areas:
- Check your feet every day for redness or patches, sores, blisters, breaks in the skins or callous buildup.
- Keep skin clean, use skin softeners and take care of minor cuts and bruises.
- Schedule regular dental & eye exams and advise your provider about your diabetic condition.
Most of all, remember to enjoy yourself during the holidays. For more information, consult your healthcare provider or nutritionist today.
Resources:
- American Diabetes Association http://www.diabetes.org
- seniorjournal.com http://www.seniorjournal.com
- MedicineNet.com http://www.medicinenet.com
- Public Health Agency of Canada http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca
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