Make Plans Now for Healthy Family Reunions and Summer Parties
July 1, 1999 It's summer--time for family reunions, barbecues, fiestas, and holiday parties with lots of food! These get-togethers can be challenging for the 16 million Americans with diabetes who need to control their diet to manage their disease. This summer, the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) is providing ideas for people with diabetes and their loved ones for making this a healthy summer for everyone to enjoy.
Choosing healthy foods is critical in managing diabetes. Current research shows that people with diabetes may delay or prevent serious complications by keeping their blood sugar in the normal range. This means following a meal plan to control blood sugar levels, getting regular physical activity, taking prescribed medicines and testing blood sugar levels on a regular basis.
If you have diabetes, the NDEP offers these tips to help you stay in control at this summer's family gatherings:
- Have a plan for what, when, and how much you will eat.
- Eat a low-calorie snack before you leave home, so you don't arrive at the party hungry.
- Bring your favorite healthy dish so you are guaranteed to have at least one thing you'll enjoy.
- Eat slowly to reduce your chances of overeating.
- Drink water--the healthy, no-calorie beverage.
- Discuss your diabetes control plan with your friends and family members so they can help you.
The National Diabetes Education Program also suggests that the loved ones of people with diabetes support their family members through the challenges of summer festivities. The National Diabetes Education Program recommends the following: - Offer a variety of low fat, high fiber foods on the buffet table--serve fresh fruits and vegetables, grilled lean meats, fish, and chicken without the skin. Increase fiber with whole grain breads, beans, and peas and salads.
- Transform traditionally high fat and high calorie foods into low fat healthier versions.
- Incorporate exercise into your family gathering--get people moving--plan physically active games and activities. Dancing, potato sack races, volleyball, softball, or a nature walk are activities the whole family can enjoy.
- Be supportive of your family members with diabetes by encouraging them, not chastising them.
For a complete guide to planning healthy family reunions or other summer gatherings, visit the National Diabetes Education Program's web site at http://ndep.nih.gov
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CONTACT: Joanne Gallivan
(301) 496-3583
Faye Wong
(770) 488-5037
Page last updated: April 17, 2008
