Holiday Gift Suggestions
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Thursday, November 08, 2007 |
Q: “I was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and am trying hard to lose weight. I am worried about getting through the holidays because so many people give me gifts of fattening goodies. I just can’t bear to be tempted with more food treats, when I am trying so hard to manage my diabetes! My family and friends know I am working on weight loss, and some of them have asked me what I want for Christmas. What can I do?”
A: The holidays are definitely a challenge for the reason you mentioned, along with other issues you will read about in the related questions.
Your family and friends care about you but some of them may not realize how difficult this time of year can be when you are trying to maintain healthy habits and avoid extra temptation.
Since some of them have asked you for suggestions, this is the perfect opportunity to take them up on their offer. Here are some options you might consider:
- A gift certificate to a local spa for a massage, facial, or manicure
- Tickets to a movie or play
- A gift card to your favorite mall, or to your favorite online store
- A gift certificate to the American Diabetes Association online store where you can choose a variety of books or gifts. If you shop from the Gift of Hope Catalog, every penny of profit goes to diabetes research.
- A donation in your name could be made to the American Diabetes Association or to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
If you do receive food gifts you don’t want to keep, consider taking them to work, sharing them with neighbors, or taking them to facilities such as local homeless shelters or food banks.
Best wishes for enjoying the spirit of the holiday season and savoring time together with your family and friends.
Related Questions
Tips for Managing Diabetes During the Holidays
Q:
"Despite my best intentions, I always seem to have a difficult time keeping
my diabetes in control during the winter holidays. Do you have any
suggestions?"
Related Links
American Diabetes Association
http://www.diabetes.org
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
http://jdrf.org
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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