If you have diabetes, you need to watch your diet all year, but the holiday season presents a particular challenge: how to navigate the bountiful buffets at parties and dinners when so much of the food being served is loaded with sugar, carbohydrates, fat and other temptations.

See also: 5 myths about diabetes.

Enjoy holiday parties and dinners with our diabetes-friendly dishes. — Masterfile

It’s not easy, but it can be done. The American Diabetes Association recommends planning around parties and gatherings so that meals aren’t consumed too far apart — Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, for example, may be served later in the day than your normal lunchtime, so don’t forget to snack accordingly (and healthfully!). The ADA also advises increasing your physical activity during the holidays to help compensate for the odd indulgence, keeping portion sizes reasonable and remembering to make room on your plate for veggies. As for the traditional bird of honor, turkey is one of your healthiest options this time of year, given its low fat content and the fact that it’s carbohydrate-free (just remember to avoid the skin!).

We’ve combed our recipe database to come up with a menu of diabetes-friendly holiday entrees, side dishes, starters and desserts. And though those with diabetes need to be especially aware of their food choices this time of year, the recipes on the next page are healthy, delicious holiday options for anyone.

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