Managing diabetes during the holidays can be challenging, says the diabetes care team at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

“It can become frustrating to count carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar while others may be overindulging at the next seat,” said Elizabeth Isenberg, registered dietician at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

“Following a dietary plan is sometimes easier said than done, especially during the holidays,” she said.

According to the American Diabetes Association, individuals living with diabetes can enjoy the holiday season and still remain healthy, by simply planning ahead with some simple steps.

“Diabetics should be proud of the portion sizes and nutritional value they consume. Many individuals become depressed around the extensive amounts of food they cannot seem to refuse. It’s no secret that the United States is seeing a rise in obesity among children and adults. The plans created for diabetics are not that dissimilar to plans we should all be incorporating into our lives (and don’t forget that drinking two glasses of water before a meal can help lessen the urge to overeat). Family should consider walking in the shoes of a diabetic. It just might change their life in some positive way,” Isenberg said.

The steps that the American Diabetes Association recommends are:

• focus on the company of family and friends instead of food

• eat slowly, select a small portion of your favorite food, and resist going back for seconds

• to help with overindulging, eat on a regular schedule and avoid arriving to an event hungry

• bring a favorite dish to share that you are comfortable counting into your diet

• enjoy alcoholic drinks in moderation

• eat prior to consuming

• whether it’s helping to clean up, playing with the kids, or taking a walk, remember to exercise

• get back on track, if there was some overindulging. It’s not a sign of failure or weakness, but be even more conscientious about returning to usual eating habits the next day.

Everyday responsibilities, managing a life with diabetes, and holiday planning can all lead to increased anxiety. Preparing as much in advance as possible, including arranging travel plans, preparing menus, and determining what’s really important this holiday season can help alleviate unnecessary stress.

“Family and friends can help make the holidays more comfortable for loved-ones living with diabetes,” said Harris Leitstein, diabetic educator at Canton-Potsdam Hospital. “Family members should trust the dietary plan a professional has created and be cautious not to question what and how much loved-ones eat as this can create doubt and stress,” continued Leitstein.

“When diabetics only take a small slice of pumpkin pie, it’s not because they don’t enjoy grandma’s secret recipe anymore or that they are starving themselves. They are simply working on staying healthy and sticking with their plan,” said Leitstein.

Dr. Reinier Ramirez, CPH Norfolk Center family physician had some additional tips to share that can easily be incorporated into a patient’s lifes and help alleviate some of the stressors that come with everyday living.

“I often suggest to patients who may be traveling across different time zones to pack a second watch, set to ‘home’ time until the body becomes familiar with the time difference. In addition, bringing pre-measured snacks will minimize the difficulty of accessing healthy nutrition during routine eating times,” said Dr. Ramirez.

“Making it a priority to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night will help strengthen a body’s immune system and ease the effects of stress. Wearing a medical identification bracelet, and bringing a second carrying case with additional supplies in case luggage gets misplaced in transport are more easy ideas for patients who want to become more proactive in managing their own care,” said Ramirez.

Other ways patients can manage their own care come from Victor Caamaño, licensed physical therapist at the hospital, who noted the importance of exercising to alleviate stress, manage diabetes, and maintain a healthy heart.

“The word ‘exercise’ should not be intimidating. Movement alone is a form of exercise,” said Caamaño. “Most diabetic patients are encouraged to walk and participate in everyday activities, which are both considered light forms of exercise and stress relievers.

“Those diagnosed with multiple disabilities, for example diabetes and arthritis, may be eligible for insurance-covered outpatient physical therapy, where they will be personally trained and coached on how best to exercise for their individual needs. Before beginning any routine that increases heart rate or perspiration, patients should consult with their primary care provider,” said Caamaño.

There are many resources online and in print to assist diabetics with managing stress and maintaining a healthy diet. Individuals interested in learning more about coping during the holidays or receiving help in creating a personalized eating plan may contact Elizabeth Isenberg at 261-5351.

Individuals interested in learning more about diabetes, achieving better blood sugar control, or developing diabetes coping skills, may contact Harris Leitstein at 261-5393.