Dish It Out: Turkey Day Diabetic Survival Guide

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and our favorite Registered Dietician, Jennifer Maeachum, is sharing a turkey day survival guide for diabetics this holiday season!

Connect with Jennifer on social media @TheTVRD

Here is a 3 Step Thanksgiving survival guide for diabetics:

1. Plan it

Whether you prepare the Thanksgiving meal or are a guest make a plan on what you are going to feast on or prepare to help keep your blood sugars in control. Most diabetics should aim for 45-60 grams of carbs per meal which can make the carb laden Thanksgiving meal a challenge. Fill your plate with lean meat and non-starchy sides like green beans, Brussel sprouts, carrots, asparagus, salad. Plan to try out new healthier recipes to compliment your traditional menu.

2. Ditch it

Ditch the ordinary and savor the extraordinary. In other words spend your carbs on starchy or sweet sides that you only enjoy once a year like homemade cornbread stuffing or pumpkin pie and ditch the foods you can get anytime like a roll or mashed potatoes.

3. Move it

Before and or after your Thanksgiving meal take a 20-30 minute walk. Exercise helps with blood sugar management and may help offset any overindulgence of carbs on Turkey day.

Roasted Cinnamon Pecan Butternut Squash

4 cups cubed Butternut Squash

1/4 cup chopped pecans

2 Tbsp. olive or avocado oil

1 Tbsp. Splenda brown sugar

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425F. Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, toss the cut squash with pecans, oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Transfer to foil-lined baking sheet. Place squash in a single layer, without overcrowding the pieces.

3. Roast 40 minutes, rotating pan midway during baking. Remove from oven immediately when edges are browned and pieces are fork tender.