Our best collection of diabetes-friendly holiday recipes perfect for people with diabetes. Holiday meals don't have to mean blood sugar spikes. From appetizers to desserts try our healthier options the whole family will love!
This post originally published October 2019, now updated with new pictures and tips on holiday eating with diabetes. Be sure to check with your diabetes care team for guidance with your carb goals and proper meal planning during the holiday season for healthy blood sugar levels.
One of the keys to healthy eating during the holidays is proper portion sizes. Be sure to keep your measuring tools handy and check your meal plan in case you are unsure. It's a wonderful time of year when everyone expects delicious food. Here's the good news- the following healthy recipes are diabetic-friendly alternatives the whole family will love!
Diabetes-Friendly Holiday Recipes
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Holiday Appetizers
Appetizers don't have to be a carb disaster! Try cut up veggies in place of chips. Use lower fat sour cream in your dip recipe- no one will notice the difference. Check out our group of lower carb appetizers you will love!
photo courtesy wholesomeyum.com
photo courtesy ketocookingwins.com
Holiday Salads
Salads can be the perfect meal during the holidays. Bring a lower carb leafy green salad to your next event and how easy it is to get a satisfying meal full of flavor!
Healthy Entrees
Entrees are usually protein-based, so you shouldn't have to worry of carb overload. Try simple cooking techniques such as baking and roasting instead of frying for a lower calorie meal. You will want these low carb options in your recipe box for holiday events and special occasions!
photo courtesy iheartumami.com
photo courtesy dancingthroughtherain.com
Delicious Side Dishes
Our delicious side dishes pair perfectly with your main dish. Be careful with side dishes as this is where calories and carbs can really add up! Look for veggie options like leafy green salads and breads made with lower carb flour or simply go bread-free.
photo courtesy ketocookingchristian.com
photo courtesy therisingspoon.com
photo courtesy wickedspatula.com
photo courtesy wholesomeyum.com
Diabetes Friendly Desserts
You won't miss the carb-heavy ingredients when you try our selection of sweet treats! Be sure to follow directions carefully if you are new to cooking with sugar substitutes. The results will be worth it! Check out these diabetic-friendly desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth and don't forget that fresh fruit in moderate portions makes a great addition to the holiday dessert table.
Remember, don't let extra calories hamper your healthy resolutions! Taking a brisk walk after a big meal is a great way to help blood glucose control (check with your health care provider and get approval). You can still enjoy a healthy meal the entire family will love.
More Resources with Holiday Recipe Ideas, Tips
- Healthy Diabetic Thanksgiving Recipes - A nice array of holiday recipes for you from the Eating Well website. These recipes offer nutrition info so you can properly assess your carb intake. Nice work.
- A Diabetes Friendly Thanksgiving Feast - Another set of traditional recipes with nutrition info. The recipes here sound great-check them out!
- 7 Easy Ways to Cut Carbs at Mealtimes
- Top 10 Comfort Foods Made Diabetes Friendly
Camilla Hawkins says
What a delicious collection of diabetes friendly recipes. Thank you for including my chocolate. mousse 👌
Charlotte says
Hi Camilla,
You're welcome-thanks for sharing your recipe!
Kathryn says
Thanks for recipes and ideas-can I ask a favor-
do you have a recipe for shortbread cookies?
I had one that used Splenda -was a great recipe but lost it when I moved-was a family favorite-.
Would appreciate any help for cookies and any other treats you may have.
Thanks ,
Kathryn