Autumn brings things that are much awaited: cooler weather, chances to gather with friends and relatives, and not to mention, warm and comforting dishes of the season.
But it’s also the time of year that your regular routine may get vastly disrupted:
There’s a time change to factor into your daily activities, the many dietary pitfalls to avoid, and special considerations to make before embarking on that trip you’ve been planning all year long.
Follow these practical tips to enjoy the season to its fullest.
1) Adjust for time changes
Without proper planning, when the clock falls back, your control may too.
Check with your health professional how to properly adjust changes during the time we adjust our clocks back 1 hour.
Daylight savings time is also a good time to update your contacts for an emergency.
Check your cell phones and make sure you have added: “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) adjacent to the names of people who should be contacted in case you have a diabetes emergency.
If you run or walk outdoors in the early evening and don’t like exercising after dark, look for alternative ways to work out indoors.
Try joining a health club or community recreation center. Buy an exercise video, or go to the mall and walk. Don’t stop moving!
2) Tailor your tailgating activities
Fall means football, and for many fans, it also means a big spread of Buffalo wings, hot dogs, pizza, and other not-so-healthy finger foods — not to mention the beer.
Expand your culinary horizons and try some new delicious, diabetes-friendly snacks to enjoy with the game, plus healthy variations on old favorites.
Go to our recipe section for new ideas and inspiration.
3) Don’t let the holidays scare you
Parents of children with type 1 diabetes often dread Halloween because of all the tempting treats.
But there are plenty of ways to make the holiday fun without focusing on candy confiscation.
Offer small toys, special activities, and other “spooktacular” options to your child.
Try bartering candy for special non-edible treats and toys. Some candy can also be saved and stored to treat lows.
Some people even leave the candy outside for the “Great Pumpkin” at night and when their child awakens the next day, a much-wanted toy has been exchanged for all of that candy.
4) Get in the holiday spirit
The holidays are fast approaching, and getting a head start on your shopping and entertainment preparation can help your control later.
Stress often raises blood sugar levels; so make your holidays less hectic by making a schedule and sticking to it.