Diwali with Fluctuating Blood Glucose: A Guide to Better Self-Care During Festive Season

Diwali, the festival of lights, brings joy and celebration to households all across the country.  However, for individuals with fluctuating blood glucose levels or diabetes, it can be a challenging time to manage their condition, when everyone around them is busy enjoying yummy treats! However, that shouldn’t bog you down.

In this blog, we’ll share valuable tips on how to take better care of yourself during Diwali, ensuring a festive season filled with health and happiness.

1. Make Time for Simple Exercise: Incorporating even a few minutes of simple exercise into your daily routine, early morning before festive ceremonies begin,
   can be a game-changer in stabilising blood sugar levels. A little care would go a long way! Activities like bodyweight squats can be highly effective when it comes to fluctuating blood glucose. Take a moment for yourself, step away from the festivities, and engage in some light exercise to maintain optimal health.

2. Maximize Protein Absorption: Proteins play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. Opt for complete protein sources like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Enhance absorption by combining these proteins with complementary foods. Substitute brown rice with white rice and pair with lentils or nuts for festive meals.
   Additionally, consider snacks like whole-grain toast with butter. To further boost digestion and absorption, incorporate protease-rich fruits like figs, kiwis, mangoes, papayas, and pineapples into your offerings.

3. Avoid Deep Fried Foods: While the allure of fried delicacies during Diwali is hard to resist, it’s essential to exercise restraint. Deep-fried foods can disrupt blood glucose levels, leading to spikes and crashes. Opt for healthier cooking methods like steaming, stir-frying, or even air-frying to enjoy the festivities without compromising your health.

4. Embrace Fiber-Rich Flours: Choosing the right flours can make a significant difference for individuals managing blood sugar levels. Prioritize flours like buckwheat and water chestnut flour, which facilitate controlled sugar release and have a low glycemic index. Additionally, incorporate fibre-rich fruits and vegetables available during this festive season, such as apples, bananas, and carrots, to add an extra boost of fibre to your diet.

5. Have Sweets In Moderation: Sweets are an integral part of Diwali celebrations, but for those with diabetes, it’s important to exercise moderation. Consider substituting white sugar with alternatives like jaggery, coconut sugar, or stevia when preparing homemade sweets. Remember, balance is key – enjoy your favourite treats in moderation to savour the festive spirit without compromising your health.

6. Regular Vital Monitoring: Even amidst the celebrations, it’s crucial to prioritize your health by monitoring vital signs, especially blood sugar levels. Consider using a non-invasive gadget like EYVA The Glucose Monitor for convenient and accurate readings. This proactive approach helps identify any habits or foods that might be causing spikes, allowing you to make informed choices and enjoy the festivities worry-free.

7. Stay Hydrated and Mindful of Alcohol Consumption: During Diwali, it’s easy to get caught up in the festivities and forget to stay adequately hydrated. However, proper hydration is essential for regulating blood sugar levels. Opt for water, herbal teas, or infused water with slices of fruits like lemon or cucumber. Additionally, if you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation and be mindful of its impact on your blood sugar levels.

8. Plan Balanced Meals and Snacks: To maintain stable blood sugar levels, it’s important to plan well-balanced meals and snacks. Ensure that each meal includes a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. This balanced approach helps slow down the absorption of sugars and provides sustained energy throughout the day.

9. Manage Stress and Prioritize Rest: Managing stress is crucial for individuals with fluctuating blood glucose levels. High stress levels can lead to spikes in blood sugar. Take time for relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga. Additionally, prioritize getting enough restful sleep to support overall well-being and blood sugar regulation. At the same time, you can have a blood sugar monitoring machine that will make it easy for you to keep a tab on your sugar levels.

10. Communicate Dietary Preferences and Needs: If you’re attending gatherings or celebrations during Diwali, don’t hesitate to communicate your dietary preferences and needs to your hosts. They’ll likely appreciate knowing how to accommodate you, and this can help ensure that there are options available that align with your health goals.

With these practical tips, individuals with fluctuating blood glucose levels or diabetes can navigate Diwali with confidence and care. Remember, your health is a precious gift, and by making thoughtful choices, you can enjoy the festivities while maintaining optimal well-being. Furthermore, a blood sugar level test can make it easy for you to keep your sugar in control. Wishing you a happy and healthy Diwali!