10 tips to help you have a diabetic friendly easter

With Easter coming up we know it can be a difficult time for people managing diabetes, however don’t let living with diabetes stop you from enjoying your Easter. Having a balanced diet means that you can still enjoy chocolate every once in a while, just make sure you manage your portions and check your blood sugar. We’ve put together a few tips to help you have a diabetes-friendly Easter this year: 

1. Choose dark chocolate over milk or white.
   As dark chocolate contains more cocoa solids and usually has less added sugar it is typically the healthier option. 
   
   
2. Portion size is key!
   It is better to have a small quantity of the good quality chocolate and sweets.
   
   
3. If doing an Easter egg hunt, try to keep the packaging (or ask your family to) to help you with carb counting!
   
   
4. Instead of eating, swap snack time for a DIY Easter-themed craft activity.
   This will help with distracting to prevent overeating, and can help keep the kids with diabetes busy and avoid feeling left out. 
   
   
5. Enjoy hot cross buns.
   They are a good source of fiber and have lower fat contents than many other Easter treats - as long as you stick to the dried fruit versions and avoid the butter!
   
   
6. Sugar-free chocolate and carob are often still high in saturated fat and calories, so check the label rather than assuming they're a better choice. 
    
7. Stock up on some sugar free marshmallows as a treat to yourself!
   
   
8. Use the holiday as an opportunity to fit in more movement.
   Take some time to spend outdoors, going for a walk with the family - to put it into perspective a 30–40 minute brisk walk burns roughly 143 calories, about the same as three small solid chocolate eggs!
   
   
9. Make sure you have a support network, whether it is family, friends or a stranger on our support group.
   Having someone to help hold you accountable will encourage healthier habits and stop you from over-indulging. Our Facebook support group is a place to chat, support or ask questions with others who are also living with diabetes - we loved hearing people’s stories last Easter!
   
   
   
10. Cut yourself some slack this break!
    Easter is a time to spend with family and friends, and eating some treats is usually part of the celebration. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t eat exactly how you should. Diabetes management is tricky and it is important to be consistent and kind to yourself.
    
    

Explore our blog for more tips and resources.

Disclaimer: This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health provider with any questions about your condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately, or visit your nearest emergency care center.

General information, not medical advice. Always talk to your diabetes care team about your care.