It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and for many people, that means indulging in delicious Christmas desserts. However, if you have diabetes or are watching your sugar intake, you may be wondering if you can still enjoy these treats.

The impact of sugar on your body

Sugar is a type of carbohydrate that is found naturally in many foods, such as fruits and milk, and is also added to many processed foods. When you eat foods that contain sugar, your body breaks it down into glucose, which is used for energy.

However, too much sugar can cause a range of health problems, including diabetes, weight gain, and heart disease.

Managing your sugar intake

If you have diabetes or are watching your sugar intake for other reasons, it’s important to monitor how much sugar you consume. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up all desserts.

Instead, you can make small adjustments to your diet to help manage your sugar intake.

Choosing healthier options

One way to enjoy Christmas desserts without overloading on sugar is to choose healthier options. For example, some desserts can be made with sugar substitutes instead of traditional sugar, which can help lower the overall sugar content of the recipe.

Additionally, fruits such as berries or apples can be used to add natural sweetness to desserts.

Portion control

Another strategy for managing your sugar intake during the holidays is to practice portion control. Instead of indulging in large servings of dessert, try to enjoy smaller portions.

This can help you satisfy your sweet tooth without consuming too much sugar.

Combining desserts with other foods

You can also try combining desserts with other foods to help balance your blood sugar levels.

For example, you can pair a small serving of dessert with protein-rich foods, such as nuts or cheese, which can help slow the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream. Additionally, eating desserts along with foods that are high in fiber can also help slow down the absorption of sugar.

Consulting with your doctor

If you have diabetes or other health conditions that require you to monitor your sugar intake, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian before making any changes to your diet.

They can help you create a personalized plan for managing your sugar intake, including tips for enjoying desserts in moderation.

The bottom line

Overall, it is possible to enjoy Christmas desserts even if you have to watch your sugar intake.

By making small adjustments to your diet, such as choosing healthier options, practicing portion control, and combining desserts with other foods, you can still indulge in your favorite sweet treats without harming your health. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on managing your sugar intake.