Christmas is almost here! It means these days will be full of fun, excitement, presents, festive food and drinks. We drink more at Christmas than at any other time of the year and there is nothing wrong with having a few drinks in good company. Of course, unless this has been advised by your doctor on medical grounds. Anyway, when it comes to drinking alcohol, you should be particularly cautious. Follow these tips to avoid risks and have a good Christmas time!

• Try to cut down calories and avoid sugary drinks. Go for sugar-free or diet drinks as mixers;
• Alternate between alcoholic and soft drinks to limit the amount of alcohol you consume;
• Don’t drink on an empty stomach to avoid hypo;
• To slow the absorption and effects of alcohol always have a protein-based snack with you;
• Be careful if you take diabetes medications;
• Make sure someone knows you have diabetes. Give your friends a heads up of what to do in case of an emergency.
• Test your blood sugar before having an alcoholic beverage. Check it more often while partying.

And if you use a CGM sensor, be sure it is protected with an adhesive patch as it is very easy to damage your sensor while partying. Take a few extra patches with you just in case!