How to Support Family Members with Type 2 Diabetes or Prediabetes - Do's and Don'ts!

Supporting Loved Ones with Type 2 Diabetes or Prediabetes During Holidays: Do's and Don'ts

Thanksgiving and other holidays is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious food. For those with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, the holidays can also bring challenges in managing blood sugar levels. As a family member or friend, your support can make all the difference in creating a positive and inclusive holiday experience. Here’s how you can help:

Don’t: Try Something New for the Holidays (Like Sugar-Free Recipes)

The holidays are not the time to experiment with “sugar-free” desserts or alternative recipes. Some sugar-free options can have unexpected effects, such as causing digestive upset due to sugar alcohols. Instead, stick to tried-and-true dishes that everyone can enjoy, and let your loved one decide how to manage their portions. Instead....

Do: Encourage Pairing Fast-Acting Carbs with Lean Protein and Fiber

Help create balanced meals by incorporating lean protein (like turkey breast or chicken breast) and fiber-rich sides (such as green beans, broccoli, or brussel sprouts) alongside carbohydrate options like mashed potatoes, pies, or rolls. Pairing carbs with protein and fiber slows digestion and can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Subtly offering these choices empowers your loved one to make health-conscious decisions without feeling singled out.

Don’t: Assume What They Can or Cannot Eat

Instead of deciding for them, ask. A simple, “How can I help make this meal easier for you?” shows respect and allows them to make informed choices based on their current health plan. Avoiding assumptions prevents unnecessary stress or embarrassment for your loved one. Allow people to eat their food at their own pace and give gentle or subtle reminders to drink water between bites to improve hydration and blood sugar balance.

Do: Stay Active Together

Encourage light activity to help keep blood sugars stable. Offer to take a walk after the meal or ask them to join you in setting the table or tidying up. Gentle movement helps muscles absorb glucose more efficiently and adds a layer of connection and bonding. Additionally, going for a morning walk outside if the weather is nice or pacing around the house indoors will help blood sugars tremendously.

Don’t: Fat Shame or Carb Shame Anyone

Comments about weight, portion sizes, or carbohydrate intake are not helpful and can be hurtful. It’s important to remember that diabetes is a complex condition influenced by genetics, environment, and lifestyle—not solely by sugar or weight. Fat shaming or carb policing not only dampens the holiday spirit but can also harm relationships. Also, it can increase stress levels of the individual and cause blood sugars to increase and harder for it to come down due to more cortisol being released. Instead...

Do: Encourage Mindful Eating Habits

Help foster an environment of mindful eating by suggesting small actions, like drinking water between bites or savoring each dish. Avoid pressuring them to take second servings or more dessert. People are better equipped to manage their intake when they’re free to listen to their hunger and fullness cues. Tradition and politeness may seem positive, but it can actually be a detriment to some people. Respecting the family member or friend's individual choices would be more helpful.

Don’t: Share Scary Stories About Diabetes Complications

Thanksgiving isn’t the time for recounting how a distant relative lost a limb due to diabetes or making grim predictions about someone’s health. These stories can feel dehumanizing and create unnecessary fear or shame. Not to mention they probably heard that story a million times when telling people they have Diabetes. Instead...

Do: Ask How You Can Support Them

Every person’s diabetes management is unique. Check in with your loved one and ask how you can best support them during the holidays. Whether it’s adjusting meal times or keeping carb-heavy snacks on the side, this gesture of care and consideration goes a long way. Suggest they touch base with their healthcare provider or Diabetes Education team if they need tips for navigating the festivities. If appointments are booked, you can give a phone call or leave a voice mail with the questions you have.

Don’t: Trust Everything You’ve Read Online About Diabetes

Misinformation about diabetes abounds, but not everything applies to every person. Don't suggest a fad diet, trying to cure Diabetes with a spoonful of cinnamon, or buying into the myth that Diabetes is caused by eating too many sugars... Hint, that is a myth since Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes can be caused by different factors. What works for one individual might not work for another. For example, telling someone who is vegan to become a carnivore can have a lot of negative consequences. Instead of offering unsolicited advice, focus on creating a supportive and judgment-free environment. Remember, avoid assuming. Instead...

Do: Leave Judgments at the Door

Thanksgiving is about connection, not critique. Be kind, inclusive, and mindful of everyone’s struggles, whether visible or not. By setting aside biases, you can help create a holiday experience that is joyful, compassionate, and welcoming for all.

Final Thoughts
Supporting someone with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes doesn’t require drastic changes—just a little thoughtfulness and understanding. By focusing on respect, communication, and inclusion, you can help your loved one enjoy Thanksgiving without added stress. Remember, the goal is to celebrate together and make lasting memories.

Happy Thanksgiving! 🍁 Please share this blog with a friend in need.

Review the disclaimers here: https://www.diabetesmanagementgroup.org/legalpage