How to Plan a Diabetes-Friendly Diwali Party Menu
Diwali is a time of lamps, kolams, family gatherings, and of course, food. But festive feasts often consist of sweets, fried foods and high-calorie foods. Navigating this is quite challenging for people with diabetes. However, with some planning, we can enjoy a diabetes friendly meal, traditionally prepared in a healthier way.
Step 1: Smart Starters
Instead of having deep-fried foods like murukku, bajji or bonda, try the following dishes:
- Grilled paneer or mushroom tikka
- Sundal made with channa, green gram or peas (lightly tempered)
- Roasted peanuts or almonds in moderation
- Ragi or millet adai with chutney, cooked with very little oil
Step 2: Balanced Main Course
Meals should be wholesome and light. Include the following dishes as the main course.
- Red rice idlis or millet pongal with sambar
- Whole wheat chapati or multigrain dosai with dhal tadka
- Sambar with lots of vegetables
- Poriyal or kootu with keerai that’s available locally
- Fish/chicken/egg curry
Step 3: Smarter Sweets
Sweets are a part of Diwali celebrations. But we can make them healthy, for example:
- Payasam with low-fat milk, sweetened with dates or stevia
- Baked modakam stuffed with dry fruits and coconut
- Fruit bowls decorated in festive rangoli style
- Small portions of dates-and-nut laddu without added sugar
Step 4: Refreshing Drinks
Instead of sugary drinks, have
- Neer mor (spiced buttermilk)
- Herbal teas like tulsi or ginger tea
- Lemon mint juice
Step 5: Mindful Eating
Eat smaller portions, focus on family, fun and music. Food can be one part of the celebration, not the entire celebration.
A Celebration for All
A diabetes-friendly Diwali menu is not about missing out. It’s all about balance, tradition, and health.
For more
To book an appointment: https://drmohansdiabetes.co.in/enroll/?campname=website
