Living with any chronic disease can be a difficult and isolating experience. However, there is no reason to sacrifice your quality of life! It’s completely possible to balance a full social life while also doing what is best for yourself while living with diabetes.
As a diabetic, it is important to monitor your sugar intake and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Nonetheless, a healthy social life is also part of a healthy lifestyle. Here are some things to keep in mind as you build your calendar:
Going out with friends? Just be mindful!
Food and drinks are the center of most social life, especially during summer. From patios to bars and barbecues, good food and liquor are typically part of the equation. You don’t have to choose between a good night out and maintaining good health – you can have both!
While monitoring your sugar intake, be mindful about what and how much you’re putting in your body. Want those ribs? Go for it! But also make sure to include some vegetables on your plate.
Grilled veggies are a great way to get your vegetables in during the summer. Just vegetables like peppers, onions, or broccoli on the grill right next to your ribs or burgers.
Drinks seem innocent enough but sneak in excess sugar and calories into your diet. Instead of refilling your cup with sodas, maybe opt for a diet soda or start with a regular one and switch one water for the rest of the night.
This will satisfy a craving and make you feel less restricted. As far as alcoholic drinks, go for the fancy cocktail but with some modifications! Instead of club soda, which contains high fructose corn syrup, opt for sparking waters or 100% real fruit juice.
Try balancing out the night with spiked seltzers, which are typically low on added sugars and any other additives. All of these tips ensure a fun night, while staying conscious of maintaining a healthier version of yourself.
Make living a healthy lifestyle part of your social life
We often think about how we can fit health & wellness into our life, but it’s better to think about how you can just make it your lifestyle. Take your friends and family along on the journey! Summertime is a great time to get outside and get active without it being a hassle.