You’ve heard the term and know it’s important for good health, but what exactly does “blood sugar level” mean? Blood sugar level (or blood glucose level) refers to the concentration of glucose present in your blood at any given time. Glucose is a type of sugar that your body uses as its primary energy source, and it comes from the food you eat, especially carbohydrates.

Maintaining a normal blood sugar level is crucial because glucose provides energy to cells, but too much or too little can have serious health consequences.

We tend to overindulge in things that spike blood sugar to unhealthy levels during the holidays.

Blood sugar levels spike when we:

• Eat sugary foods and beverages
• Eat refined and processed carbohydrates
• Eat too many carbohydrates
• Eat high-glycemic fruits and fruit juices
• Consume alcohol
• Skip meals or fast followed by overeating
• Live in a state of stress
• Don’t get enough sleep
• Become dehydrated

Managing blood sugar spikes during the holidays can be challenging, but with some planning and mindful choices, you can enjoy the festivities while keeping your blood sugar in check. Here
are some tips:

• Eat smaller portions. You can trick yourself by using a smaller plate. Prioritize protein and fiber-rich fo
• ods. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar, while fiber slows down sugar absorption into the bloodstream.
• Limit sugary and processed foods. Avoid sugary drinks and desserts, and skip sugary sauces.
• Time your carbohydrates. Don’t eat all your carbs in one sitting. Spread them out across the day to avoid spikes. A carb-counting app can come in handy during the holidays.
• Stay active. Take a short walk or exercise after a meal or throughout the day.
• Stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps to flush excess sugar from your bloodstream.
• Limit alcohol. Drink in moderation, and pair it with food to prevent spikes and drops.
• Plan ahead. Bring a dish you know is blood sugar-friendly to holiday gatherings. Try a small, healthy snack before a gathering to prevent overeating once you’re there.
• Manage stress and sleep. Stress hormones like cortisol and a lack of sleep raise blood sugar. Take care of yourself over the holidays.

By identifying the foods and behaviors that trigger blood sugar spikes, you can make informed choices to help keep your blood sugar levels balanced. Keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range during the holidays will help you maintain steady energy and support your physical and mental well-being.