Commentary: For those with chronic conditions, Chinese New Year feasts can be stressful

Third, keep an eye on your blood glucose levels if you have diabetes. Before eating and again one to two days after, the American Diabetes Association advises checking your blood glucose levels.

Consider continuous glucose monitoring systems that record and keep sugar data every minute, providing real-time feedback on your cellphone without the need to draw blood. Pricking your hand is difficult in social situations. Knowing how your body responds to various foods will help you control your state more effectively even after the holidays.

Fifth, leave it alone. As cliché as it may sound, a little training can be very beneficial. Your system will better practice what you ate if you walk before and after a meal. Five to fifteen minutes of exercise is all it takes to enjoy a meal; you do n’t need to spend hours in the gym.

LOVED ONES HELP

Make sure that people with serious health conditions feels supported during the holiday season if you are caring for them. If you are making the meals, modify the dish to meet their preferences. Apply less sugar and salt, refrain from using vegetable oil, or substitute coconut butter for dairy products. By doing this, you can lessen their sadness while allowing them to enjoy the vacation dinner.

Do n’t reprimand someone if you find them enjoying a treat. Offer them the benefit of the doubt otherwise because it might be their first and only opportunity. Keep an eye out without hovering, and foster a culture where people are more willing to talk about their culinary decisions than they are to engage in private.

Holiday season is joyful, but it can also be very difficult, especially for those experiencing the three spikes.

However, having one of the three highs should n’t stop you from having fun. The key lies in having the right assistance and learning how to handle the circumstance. Even though you should n’t disregard caution, if you know what you’re doing, you can still have one or two Chinese New Year’s celebrations.

Clinical and athletic dietician Jaclyn Reutens works for Aptima Nutrition.