For a diabetic, festive times are the worst! You are constantly tempted with sweets like laddoos, jalebis, pedhas, cakes and puddings, and it’s tough to say no every time, unless of course, you have the will power of a saint. Should you only sneak a bite or two or completely lay off sweets? This World Diabetes Day, let’s address the biggest problem in the life of a diabetic with a sweet tooth – how to enjoy sweets when you have diabetes. Our expert tells you how.

Diwali 2018 Sweets: Sugar-Free Mithai Ideas For Diabetics and Weight Watchers This Festive Season. 

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Dr Tejal Lathia, Consultant Endocrinologist, Hiranandani Hospital says, "We celebrate a multitude of festivals, each has a common denominator – calorie rich delicacies. Sweet sugary rasgollas, crisp deep-fried puris, fragrant biryanis and of course laddoos, pedas, sheera etc." He further explains, "There is temptation everywhere, making it even more difficult to resist. A downer, however, is that people around a diabetic person seem to encourage them to eat whatever they feel like. Along with an increase in consumption of calorie-rich food, festivities breakdown your regular nutrition schedule.

Guests come and go, poojas and gatherings take precedence, because of this, exercise schedule goes for a toss too!"

While he is absolutely right, there is nothing for the diabetics or other health-conscious people to be sad about! Festivities can be enjoyed while keeping a track on food and workout schedules in the right way! Here are a few tips laid down by Dr Lathia that you can follow this Diwali.

  1. Plan your meals well in advance- If you’re venturing out, decide what you want to eat, carry healthier options like nuts or fruits instead of something packed an refined.

  2. No matter what, do not skip your meals. This will not only impact your blood sugar levels but your overall health as well.

  3. Calculate your calories. Keep your calorie intake in check especially consumption of carbohydrates. Pay careful attention to portion size as that determines the amount of harm you are doing to yourself.

  4. Focus on low protein meats and vegetables.

  5. Do not give up on dessert completely. The best way is to have a piece of your favourite sweet is to plan your carbohydrate intake a few hours in advance.

  6. Always stay hydrated! Do not forget to carry water bottles with you. An oral glucose gel available over the counter is also a good option to keep handy, this will help raise Blood Sugar when low.

We cannot stress how much the portion control matters here. If you crave for something sweet, plan your overall eating schedule out and then cherish the piece of sweet you want to eat.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 14, 2018 01:44 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).