Staying on track with your diabetes meal plan can be stressful, especially during the holiday season. NARMC Clinical Nutrition Manager, Debi Arnold works with diabetic patients throughout the year to help them develop appropriate meal plans.
Here are some simple steps Debi suggest to achieve long-lasting results through nutrition:
Don’t skip meals. Skipping meals can lead to inconsistent blood sugars and leave you feeling ravenous later in the day. Instead, eat at regular times throughout the day. This can even help you fight fatigue and boost energy!
Mix it up with a recipe swap. The monthly diabetes support group* is a great place to get new recipes and visit with others working towards the same goals!
Slow down. Rushing to meet the demands of a full holiday schedule can lead to increased stress. Increased stress can lead to unwanted eating. Allowing for even one or two quiet minutes to yourself can help.
Enjoy! Turn off the TV, put down the phone, and eat mindfully. Try to really taste and savor the foods you choose!
Medical Nutrition Therapy is offered at NARMC. This program optimizes health through food and nutrition. A registered dietitian, such as Debi, is part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team responsible for working alongside other team members to optimize health through changes in an individual’s nutrition plan.
In addition to the free monthly support group which meets in the 1st floor lobby of the hospital, NARMC offers a class, called Connect to Diabetes that focuses on helping individuals manage life with diabetes. Session topics include living well with diabetes, balancing your food choices, healthy ways to cope with street and how medications work. You may call 870-414-4584 to learn more about the Connect to Diabetes Program.
*Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6pm in the NARMC 1st floor waiting area.