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Betson V - August 11, 2025
Festivals in India mean love, laughter and an overdose of fried and sweet food items. But for those managing health conditions like diabetes, pre-diabetes or thyroid, the sudden spike due to sweets, fried snacks and irregular eating patterns push blood sugar levels off balance. The good news is you can still enjoy the celebrations without putting your health at risk. Read on to know how…
Start Your Day Right
Begin with a balanced breakfast rich in protein and fiber like moong dal chilla, vegetable upma or boiled eggs. Avoid starting the day with sweets or refined carbs, as it can cause an early sugar spike.
Follow the ‘80-20’ Rule
Let 80% of your meals be balanced and healthy, and enjoy festive treats in the remaining 20%. This helps in portion control without feeling deprived.
Never Skip Meals
Skipping meals before a big feast often leads to overeating and sudden sugar spikes. Eat small, balanced snacks before attending gatherings like nuts, yogurt or roasted chana.
Choose Smart Sweet Options
Opt for homemade sweets made with natural sweeteners like dates or jaggery in moderation. Choose sweets with nuts, seeds or paneer to add protein and reduce the glycemic load.
Balance Your Plate
Fill half your plate with salads and vegetables, one-quarter with proteins, and the rest with carbs. This slows sugar absorption and keeps you full for longer.
Keep Moving
Take a short walk (10–15 minutes) after meals to help regulate blood sugar. Keep yourself busy by joining in on festive cleaning or cooking, etc to stay active.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water or unsweetened herbal tea between your meals. Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking.
Monitor Your Sugar Levels
If you regularly check your glucose, monitor it more frequently during the festive season. This helps you take quick action if your readings go too high or too low.
Limit Alcohol & Sugary Drinks
Alcohol and sweetened beverages cause sudden sugar fluctuations. If you drink, pair it with protein-rich snacks and drink water in between.