Keeping Well During the Festive Season

As the festive season approaches, we know it’s a time for celebration, family, and good food! However, managing diabetes during this time can at times feel challenging. We’ve put together some simple tips to help you enjoy the holidays while keeping your health on track.

Follow Sick Day Rules

Winter brings cold and flu season, which can complicate diabetes management. Preparing a sick day plan helps avoid complications if illness strikes:

• Monitor blood glucose more frequently: Being unwell can cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate. If you monitor your glucose levels normally, you should do so more frequently.
• Stay hydrated: Illness can lead to dehydration, so drink water or sugar-free electrolyte drinks.
• Take your regular medications: If your diabetes is controlled by medication then take these as normal. If your diabetes is treated by insulin then adjust your insulin as needed - Illness may require higher insulin doses due to stress hormones.

For people with type 2 diabetes: see the sick day rules here for more detailed guidance.

For people with type 1 diabetes: see our sick day flowcharts for people on multiple daily injections, insulin pump therapy or hybrid closed loop for further guidance.

Stock Up on Medication and Diabetes Equipment

Many pharmacies and suppliers close over the holidays, so planning ahead ensures you're covered:

• Refill prescriptions: Make sure you have enough of your usual medication and equipment such as test strips or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors.
• Carry extra supplies: If travelling, pack more than you expect to use in case of delays or lost items.
• Prepare backup plans: If using an insulin pump, bring extra batteries and pen injectors as a backup.

Stay Active

Physical activity is a great way to maintain stable blood glucose levels, but the holidays often disrupt routines. Here’s how to stay active:

• Make time for exercise: Incorporate short walks after meals or plan some fun family activities such as ice skating or see what activities are on in your local area.
• Adapt to holiday schedules: Even if you can’t hit the gym, consider at-home workouts or winter sports.
• Watch for post-activity lows: In those where hypoglycaemia is a risk, keep an eye on levels after activity and adjust snacks or insulin if needed.

Drinking Alcohol During the Festive Season

Celebrations often include alcohol, which can significantly impact blood glucose levels.

• Drink responsibly: Alcohol can lower blood sugar in those where hypoglycaemia is a risk, so avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Aim to have a balanced meal before.
• Choose low-sugar drinks: Avoid sugary mixers. Instead, try drinks like dry wine, light beer, or spirits with a no-sugar mixer.
• Monitor blood glucose: If you monitor your glucose levels then check them more frequently as alcohol can mask symptoms of hypoglycaemia.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water in between alcoholic drinks to make sure you stay hydrated.

Manage Stress to Support Blood Glucose Control

The holidays can be stressful, from social gatherings to travel, which may impact blood glucose due to stress hormones.

• Plan ahead: Schedule downtime and set realistic expectations for social events.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing exercises, meditation, or short walks to lower stress.
• Sleep well: Lack of sleep can increase blood glucose and make managing stress harder.

Set Realistic Goals and Be Kind to Yourself

Allow yourself to enjoy the holidays without pressure for perfection. Set small, realistic goals that keep you on track without feeling restrictive.

Wishing you a wonderful, healthy, and joyful festive season! Remember, you’ve got this, and small steps can make a big difference.