Living with Diabetes? Tips to Manage Thanksgiving

November is American Diabetes Month, and if you’re living with diabetes, Thanksgiving can be difficult to manage. From tempting, sugary desserts to carb-heavy sides, it’s easy for blood sugar levels to fluctuate. The Hy-Vee Health Exemplar Care team offers up these helpful tips for managing your diabetes in a safe, healthy way this Thanksgiving:

• Monitor Your Blood Sugar before and after the meal to track any spikes or drops and be proactive.
• Balance Carbs with Protein: If you have sweets or starches, which break down as sugar, have a piece of protein to balance out your blood sugar.
• Watch Your Salt Intake as salt raises blood sugar. 
• Check for Symptoms: If you feel fatigued, thirsty or experience headaches, check your blood sugar to see if it has dropped or spiked.
• Stay Hydrated: Thirst can sometimes mimic hunger, and proper hydration supports stable blood sugar levels. Try drinking water between bites to help you avoid overeating.

And always remember, Exemplar Care’s Direct Primary Care (DPC) providers are your partners in navigating chronic diseases like diabetes. If you’re living with diabetes and looking for a provider who puts you at the center of care, we encourage you to learn more about our Direct Primary Care model.