Keep control of your diabetes this Christmas says Diabetes UK Cymru

People with diabetes don't need to completely shun mince pies and Christmas cake to control the condition during the festive period, Diabetes UK Cymru said today.

The leading health charity is reminding people with the condition in Wales that they can still have festive treats in moderation over the Christmas period.

The charity is encouraging people with diabetes to spread occasional treats out over Christmas and keep active whether it's a wintery walk, dancing or hitting the shops.

Diabetes UK Cymru is also encouraging people not to buy ‘diabetic' foods and chocolates as a ‘treat' or as a gift for people with diabetes this Christmas.

These foods offer no special benefit to people with diabetes and are often expensive.

They will still affect blood glucose levels, contain just as much fat and calories as the ordinary versions and can have a laxative effect.

The charity is encouraging people with diabetes to have small amounts of ordinary foods instead.

Chris Headland, Diabetes UK Cymru's National Care Advisor, said: "People with diabetes can enjoy mince pies and other festive treats over Christmas just like people without the condition.

"We recommend that they eat them in moderation spread across the Christmas holidays and keep active whether it's walking the dog or dancing to their favourite festive tunes.

"Christmas is also the perfect time for Diabetes UK Cymru to remind people with diabetes not to buy ‘diabetic' foods.

"They are expensive, they still affect blood glucose levels, they have the same calories and fat content and can have a laxative affect.

"Instead we recommend having sensible amounts of ordinary foods mixed with healthier snacks such as mini pittas with tomato salsa, dried fruit and breadsticks."

Diabetes UK has a recipe book available to buy called Christmas and Other Celebrations and a range of healthier festive recipes are also available online at www.diabetes.org.uk .

For information about diabetes, or to become a member of Diabetes UK, call Diabetes UK Cymru on 029 2066 8276 or email wales@diabetes.org.uk