Credit: SWNS.comA POLL of 2,000 adults uncovered the myths still commonly believed about this condition, with 23 per cent thinking they can never consume any sugar whatsoever.
When it comes to the Day feast, the lack of understanding extends to the kitchen, as 39 per cent have never cooked for someone living with Type 2 diabetes and said they’d struggle to know where to start.
The holidays can be a hard time for Brits with diabetesCredit: Peter Summers / Newsteam / SWNS
Christmas feasts are particularly difficult to navigateCredit: SWNS
While 58 per cent admitted they have little to no knowledge of how to prepare a suitable meal.
And 41 per cent believe festive favourites like mince pies are completely off-limits.
The research was commissioned by Abbott, which offers FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems to help those living with Type 2 stay on top of their glucose levels during the festive period.
Jess Jacques, 37, who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at the age of 25, said: “When I was first diagnosed, I felt like I had to miss out. Now I understand it’s all about balance.
“I plan ahead, check menus, and stick to my routine so I can enjoy the festive season while staying in control of my health.
“Seeing my glucose levels in real time helps lift the pressure to be ‘perfect’ all the time.
“The most inclusive and caring thing families can do during the festive season is to provide options – like sugar-free drinks or low-carb foods – without making a big deal out of it.”
It comes after a separate poll of 500 people living with Type 2 diabetes found 44 per cent ‘dread’ the festive season due to the season’s heightened focus on indulgent .
Half (49 per cent) have even felt they had to hide their diabetes to fit in at social gatherings.
From disrupted routines and difficulty monitoring how festive foods affect glucose levels, it emerged 18 per cent don’t feel confident managing their condition during the holidays.
With 44 per cent feeling ‘left out’ of plans due to their dietary requirements, the same amount have declined invitations or avoided festive events altogether due to concerns their needs would be overlooked, or they’d feel singled out.
While 78 per cent said friends or family don’t have a good understanding of their needs.
Three quarters also claimed people incorrectly assume foods they can or can’t eat, highlighting the need for better education.
Despite these challenges, many are finding ways to stay in control – as those using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are more likely to feel comfortable requesting food swaps.
Some feel they must miss out on key parts of their Christmas dietsCredit: David Hedges SWNS.com
More than seven in 10 (71 per cent) of CGM users would be happy to do so when a friend is cooking for them (vs 52 per cent without a CGM).
And 51 per cent said the same about being cooked for in a group setting (vs 43 per cent without a CGM).
Dr Rupy Aujla, medical doctor, chef and founder of The Doctor’s Kitchen, added: “The festive season is about connection, comfort and celebration, and food plays a central role in that.
“When living with Type 2 diabetes, enjoying the isn’t just about what’s on your plate – it’s about feeling confident in your food choices.
“Continuous glucose monitoring supports with this, providing real-time insights into how our body responds to food, helping people with diabetes make informed decisions that support their – without sacrificing the joy of the occasion.”
They key to a healthy Christmas lunch is portioning and making necessary swapsCredit: SWNS.com
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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