Folks spend an estimated $1.6 billion on candy on Valentine’s Day. But considering their are currently 25.8 million adults in the United States who have been diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, February 14th should be a day to shower your honey in something other than sugar.
A little bit of knowledge and planning can help show how much you care. Here are a few pointers from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) to get you started:
SPLURGE WISELY
Many people with diabetes have their blood sugar under control can occasionally satisfy their craving for sweets without disrupting their blood glucose levels by working a small portion into their daily food plan. It’s important to first ask if this is an option; if so, you can make a big impression while you show your love while making by purchasing a small quantity of high-end candies such as handmade truffles. Chocolate can be a better choice as the fat in chocolate causes it to be metabolized slower than other candy, meaning that blood sugar won’t elevate as quickly as with other sweets.
Some confectioners offer low-carb versions of Valentine’s favorites, which may allow your loved one to savor their sweets with less of an impact on blood sugar levels. Moderation is still key, as many “sugar-free†candies – and those labelled “low-carb†still contain calories and also affect individuals’ blood glucose differently. Which brings us to tip number 2.
BEWARE OF HIDDEN DANGERS
Sugar is not the only substance that is bad for people with diabetes. Carbohydrates, particularly those that are refined carbs such as potatoes, white rice and substances containing white flour, such as bread and pasta, cause the blood glucose level to rise rapidly. So gifting your loved one with baked goods made with a sugar substitute, but also containing white flour is a no-no.
Also, honey, corn syrup, maple syrup and agave nectar/syrup are high in sugar, even if they aren’t called “sugar.†And dried fruit can also be a pretty concentrated source of sugar, plus some commercial dried fruits have been sweetened with additional sugar.
THINK OUTSIDE THE (CANDY) BOX
Perhaps there’s no better way to show someone you love them than with a well-thought-out, home-cooked meal. Skip the reservations and long restaurant lines and whip up a delicious dinner that can be tailored to your loved one’s tastes as well as carbohydrate and sugar restrictions. The American Diabetes Association offers a number of recipes for tasty and healthy dishes, even dessert substitutions.
Any way you choose to celebrate. Do it with love and you can’t go wrong.