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  • With Mayo Clinic diabetes educators

    Nancy Klobassa Davidson, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.

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  • Living with diabetes blog

  • Aug. 21, 2010

    Enjoy fair food without torpedoing your diet

    By Nancy Klobassa Davidson, R.N., and Peggy Moreland, R.N.

4 comments posted

Controlling Your Diabetes

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I love county fairs and am looking forward to our county fair next week. Life doesn't get much more perfect than spending a day (or more) at the fair. If you have diabetes, however, the beer gardens and deep-fat fried foods at the fair can blow you diet — as well as your blood sugar — off the map.

Here are a few tips for enjoying fair favorites and staying on your diet:

  • Shop around. Don't settle for the first food stall that you see. With a little exploration you can find healthier and tastier options. Many fairs and festivals now feature vegan, vegetarian and ethnic foods that are tasty and less calorie-dense than traditional fried fair foods. For example, look for freshly grilled shish kabobs.
  • Drink lots of water. It is important to stay hydrated when you're out in the sun. Water also helps curb the appetite.
  • Be active. If you're able, walk briskly between exhibits. Don't be afraid to dance! Dancing a couple of hours can burn 800 calories.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. Not only will you be protecting your feet, you also won't mind the walking.
  • Eat before you go. Eat before going to the fair or, if you can, bring your own food to the fair. Not only will you save money — fair food is notoriously expensive — you won't be as tempted to sample the unhealthy fare.
  • Pace yourself. Spread out your favorite treats throughout your time at the fair. Enjoy one or two of your favorites each day you visit the fair.

What tips and tricks do you have for enjoying your favorites at the fair while still sticking with your diet?

Peggy

4 comments posted

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  • January 4, 2011 11:12 p.m.

    I have just jot it down. But before making any decision like this make sure you know the sufficient meal intended for you blood type. Bloody types diet is a great help for us to know what are the recommended food we should eat on every meal were on.

    - George

  • November 24, 2010 5:31 p.m.

    Both my husband and I are Type 2 diabetics so if we really want something like elephant ears (fried bread dough) , we ask them to leave off much of the topping and then we split it.

    - Diana

  • August 24, 2010 9:11 p.m.

    My fair usually has a wagon where you can get a killer stuffed tomato with chicken salad and feta. I WISH they had shish kabob! I don't go anywhere hungry unless I'm sure what's available.

    - Carol

  • August 24, 2010 5:04 p.m.

    What, you mean we don't get to order the Krispy Kreme double cheeseburger wrapped with chocolate bacon? I'm told it's a Wisconsin State Fair fav.!

    - Curtis

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