How to Cater for Someone with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes This Christmas

Christmas is a time for indulgence, festive meals, decadent treats, and seasonal drinks seem to be everywhere. However, for those living with diabetes, navigating these celebrations can feel a little daunting. If you’re hosting someone with either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes this Christmas, there are plenty of ways to make the occasion inclusive without sacrificing flavour or festivity. Here are some tips to ensure everyone can enjoy the holiday season while managing their health.

Understand the Basics

First, it’s important to know the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t produce insulin, so people need to take insulin to control their blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes often develops later in life, and while the body produces insulin, it doesn’t use it properly. 

Type 2 diabetes can be managed with diet, exercise, and medication, but insulin might also be required. Both types of diabetes require a careful balance of carbohydrates, insulin, and physical activity to maintain blood glucose levels.

1. Focus on Low-GI Foods

Glycaemic Index (GI) measures how quickly carbohydrates raise blood sugar levels. Foods with a lower GI are broken down more slowly, which helps avoid rapid spikes in blood glucose. Incorporate low-GI foods into your Christmas menu to make it easier for your guest to manage their sugar levels.

Low-GI foods: Sweet potatoes, whole grains (such as quinoa, brown rice, and wholemeal bread), legumes, leafy vegetables, and most fruits (especially berries).

Swaps: For example, serve roasted sweet potatoes instead of traditional roast potatoes. Instead of white bread rolls, go for wholegrain options.

2. Offer Balanced Meals

Meals that balance carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats are ideal for someone with diabetes. Protein and fats slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, helping to prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar.

Suggestions: A roast turkey or chicken (without excessive sugary glazes), salmon, and plant-based proteins like lentils or tofu provide excellent protein options. Combine these with non-starchy vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, and carrots.

3. Be Mindful of Sugars in Desserts

Desserts can be tricky for people with diabetes, but that doesn’t mean they should miss out on the sweet end of the meal! There are plenty of ways to create diabetic-friendly desserts that are just as satisfying.

Dessert ideas: Try a sugar-free or low-sugar trifle using sugar-free jelly, whipped cream, and fresh berries. Another option is a Christmas fruit salad, highlighting seasonal fruits such as pomegranate seeds, clementines, and a few cranberries for a festive touch.

Baking swaps: If you're making a Christmas cake or pudding, consider using natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, which don’t impact blood glucose as much as refined sugars. However, a note of caution here. Some people are allergic to some artificial sweeteners. My wife, for example, cannot tolerate stevia in her diet.

4. Rethink the Drinks

Traditional festive drinks like eggnog, mulled wine, and cocktails are often laden with sugar. Fortunately, there are plenty of lower-carb, low-sugar alternatives that can keep the celebrations going without impacting blood sugar levels.

Alcohol: For guests with diabetes, light beer, dry wine, or spirits like gin or vodka mixed with soda water and a splash of lemon or lime are good options. However, alcohol can lower blood glucose, so it’s essential to drink in moderation and always with food.

Non-alcoholic: Offer sugar-free soft drinks or flavoured sparkling water. A homemade spiced tea or mulled apple cider made with sweeteners can also be a warming alternative.

5. Portion Control is Key

Even with healthy food choices, portion control remains important. Large portions of even low-GI foods can still affect blood glucose levels. Offering smaller, more frequent portions during the day can help your guest manage their blood sugar more effectively.

Tip: Serve appetisers like vegetable crudités with hummus or smoked salmon canapés to keep everyone satisfied without overloading on high-carb snacks before the main meal.

6. Check-In with Your Guest

Each person with diabetes manages their condition differently, so don't hesitate to ask your guest about their specific needs and preferences. They might have a particular way of balancing their diet or insulin around festive meals. Showing that you’re considering their needs will ensure they feel comfortable and cared for during the celebration.

7. Include Everyone in the Festivities

Just because someone has diabetes doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the same Christmas cheer as everyone else. Get creative with diabetic-friendly recipes, involve them in menu planning, and focus on the festive experience rather than just the food. Christmas is as much about good company, laughter, and shared experiences as it is about what’s on the table.

Final Thoughts With a little planning and consideration, it’s entirely possible to create a Christmas feast that caters for everyone, including those managing diabetes. By focusing on balanced, low-GI foods, keeping an eye on portion sizes, and offering lower-sugar alternatives, you can ensure your festive celebrations are inclusive and enjoyable for all. After all, Christmas is about spreading joy—and there’s no better way to do that than by ensuring all your guests feel included, safe, and satisfied at the table.