When the sugar cravings start to set in – or even before they arise – there are several tips and tricks you can use to manage them. Try out these strategies this holiday season to discover which ones work best for you

🍁Fall Traditions

Here are some creative ways to navigate Fall while keeping your health in good shape.

  • Change your treat: Consider changing it up this year. You could substitute candy for small toys, stickers, or sugar-free gum instead. This allows you to still enjoy the fun of handing out goodies without having the challenge of avoiding the temptation.
  • Mindful Choices: If you just can’t pass up having a piece of candy, choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate options. Dark chocolate contains less sugar and contains some antioxidants that may be beneficial in moderation. Just ensure that you are still mindful about portion sizes.
  • New Traditions: Instead of eating treats and desserts, consider creating a new tradition such as hosting a pumpkin carving contest or a Fall movie night with healthier snack options. This can help shift your mind from the cravings to focusing on the activities at hand.

 

🍁Desserts

Do you enjoy baking delicious desserts and pies for your family during the fall? Living with diabetes doesn’t mean that you need to let go of those traditions.

🍂 There are healthier options to explore while creating some of your favorite treats. If you are a big fan of pie, pumpkin pie is an excellent choice. It has the lowest calorie count out of all dessert pies, and you can easily reduce the sugar by hand without losing any of the flavor.
Another delicious option to consider are chickpea blondies. This recipe provides a more nutritious twist on traditional blondies, offering a tasty and healthier dessert that the whole family will enjoy. It’s important to remember as we enter into the holiday season that most things are good in moderation and that it’s okay to engage in the flavors and treats of the season without compromising your health.
 

chocolates in maple leaves shapes

🍁Other Tips/Tricks

  • Support System: Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can greatly benefit how you make it through this holiday season.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated can help slow cravings and keep you feeling full. Before you grab that sweet treat, try reaching for a glass of water first. To make hydration a little more fun, you could add some fruits such as lemons, lime, and berries to give it some extra taste without all of the sugar.
  • Stay Active: Even though the fall season can be very busy, it’s important to keep moving. You can try incorporating fall activities such as pumpkin patches, corn mazes, or even just taking a walk with your friends to look at all the fall leaves and decorations. This will help you to not only relieve those sugar cravings but to manage blood sugar levels as well.
  • Protein + Fiber: Consuming protein and fiber can help minimize sugar cravings. They work by enhancing feelings of fullness and stabilizing your blood sugars, eliminating those sudden spikes or crashes that often are the cause of cravings.
Summary
The fall season doesn’t have to be overwhelming when it comes to managing your health. After a few simple adjustments to your habits, you can still enjoy all of the holiday season fun without compromising your well-being. You should still welcome this special time by spending quality moments with your loved ones and making delicious, healthy choices that satisfy your cravings. Lastly, remember everything is about balance, so still enjoy this season to the fullest!