The holidays can be a time of great anxiety for someone with diabetes. Eating at odd times, being surrounded by tempting food and changes to a daily routine can wreak havoc on someone’s blood sugar. And when blood sugar is too high or too low, it can make people with diabetes feel tired or unhappy.

Whether you are navigating the holiday with diabetes, or hosting a loved one with diabetes, take the bite out of your next celebration with these tips for serving a diabetes-friendly holiday meal.

For example, quick-acting insulin lowers blood sugar levels, so if your guest ends up waiting too long to eat after taking it, they may have a low blood sugar reaction, causing them to feel weak and shaky. Let your guests know the time you plan to serve food so they can plan ahead and make any necessary adjustments to their schedule.

Prepare Appetizers for the Unexpected

Unexpected delays can affect blood glucose levels. Serve up almonds flavored with pumpkin spice, an assortment of cheeses, or fruits and vegetables to bridge the gap. For guests, Dr. Gogineni adds, “If you have low blood sugar and the meal is delayed, have snacks or take glucose tablets, which can help raise your blood sugar.”

Choose Healthier Recipes

People with diabetes can enjoy the same food as your other guests. The difference is that they will need to manage their portion sizes and carb intake. Preparing traditional favorites with healthy substitutes and low-carb options can be a welcome accommodation. Check out some suggestions for green bean casserole, mashed cauliflower and herb stuffing.

Go Easy on the Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks have extra calories and cause hypoglycemic (lower blood sugar levels than normal) reactions, so choose wisely and serve food with beverages. Or, opt for a variety of flavored waters or sugar-free tea.

Remember That People Manage Their Diabetes Differently

Diabetes offers a lot of flexibility in how people manage it, so don’t be surprised if someone with diabetes asks for a piece of pie or another sweet treat. Be supportive about your guests’ food choices. While you may have good intentions, trust your guests to successfully plan ahead and navigate the holiday fare.

Plan After-Meal Exercise

Feeling stuffed after a great meal? Bundle up and invite your guests to get moving. A brisk walk around the block or an impromptu turkey football game can speed up digestion, burn calories and help lower blood sugar, too – not to mention create great family memories. Dr. Gogineni adds that as a general rule, any activity, even in small increments, can have help reduce blood sugar levels.

Look For the Signs

Dr. Gogineni suggests anyone with diabetes should check their blood sugar frequently, even if they are feeling well. Your blood sugar level can drop unexpectedly, especially if you are not in your regular routine. Dr. Gogineni encourages hosts or family members to look out for signs of blood sugar problems. Some symptoms of low blood sugar are confusion, dizziness or disorientation.

Be Supportive

Diabetes is a disease that people can’t see, but it can be physically and emotionally draining to stick to a daily routine of testing your blood sugar, taking insulin injections and counting carbs. Dr. Gogineni advises, “A little encouragement and reminders from family and friends can make people feel more comfortable and confident.”