LCMH Offers Diabetics Tips To Stay Healthy During Holidays

EVERGREEN PARK, IL -- For the person living with diabetes the holiday season can be fraught with temptations around every turn that could seriously affect one's diabetes management program. According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 26 million adults and children in the United States are currently living with diabetes. It is estimated that seven million people are undiagnosed and more than 84 million Americans have pre-diabetes.

The Diabetes Center at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park is recognized by the American Diabetes Association for its Diabetes Self-Management Education program. LCMH is dedicated to bringing diabetes awareness to patients and the community through education throughout the year. Here are some diabetes-friendly tips to stay healthy this holiday season and into the New Year:

• Eat healthy at home and consider filling up on good nutritious foods before you go out, in order to minimize cravings.
• At holiday gatherings, fill your plate with healthy food items (think veggies).
• Let your host know of any dietary restrictions you may have in advance. Most people appreciate knowing there are any specific needs.
• If you are on insulin, you may want to speak with your physician about how to plan ahead for situations in which your carbohydrate intake may increase. Together, you can decide if an increase in short-acting insulin should be used in certain situations.
• If you become ill with a cough or cold over the holidays, some over-the-counter medicines contain sugar or may react with medications you are currently taking. Ask your physician or pharmacist what the best choices are for you.
• Check blood sugar levels regularly. The ideal goals for diabetics, regardless of the season, are fasting values of 80-130 mg/dl before eating and about 180mg/dl two hours after eating.
• Remember that eating healthy is good for everyone, not just those with diabetes. If you are bringing food to a party, make it healthy. If you plan on baking, use a diabetes-friendly recipe.

“These tips are important to keep in mind during the holiday season not only for diabetes patients but for those who may be at risk for developing diabetes,” said Kristin Strickland, Registered Licensed Dietitianin the Diabetes Center at LCMH. “And remember, everything in moderation is key.”

The Diabetes Center at LCMH provides comprehensive outpatient diabetes services to the Southland community. Patients with diabetes receive services from two board-certified endocrinologists; a registered nurse; and a registered dietitian with certification in diabetes education (CDE). The Center offers treatment, nutrition and medication education, support and glucose monitoring for patients and support services for family members and is available by physician referral for anyone with diabetes. Additionally, LCMH offers diabetes classes and support groups that meet in the morning and evening at the Hospital.

“Knowledge is power and educating patients and community members on the long-term effects of uncontrolled diabetes can significantly improve their quality of life,” said Deborah Murray, RN, CDE, BC-ADM, Diabetes Program Coordinator at LCMH. “By assisting with meal planning, behavior changes, exercise routines, medications, and glucose monitoring we aim to provide them with the necessary tools to make healthier lifestyle choices.”

For more information about the Diabetes Center, or for support group dates and times, call the Center at 708-229-5629.