The health of thousands of Mississippians may be at risk when holiday hosts begin to serve rich foods and meals go on irregular schedules. According to the Center for Disease Control, an estimated 240,000 Mississippians have diabetes. One-third of those don't know that they have the disease. Diabetes affects the body's ability to produce or respond to insulin, a hormone that allows blood sugar to enter the cells of the body and be used for energy.
Experts recommend sticking to a healthy diet to help keep the diabetic's blood sugar under control.
Dr. Barbara McLaurin, a registered dietitian and human nutrition specialist with Mississippi State University's Extension Service, said there really is no such thing as a general diabetic diet. An individualized diet prescription from his or her physician is needed. A registered dietitian can teach a person how to translate the prescription to an special meal plan to fit their calorie and nutrition needs, lifestyle and food they like, McLaurin said. A lack of insulin carrying energy to cells can damage organs. Repeated high blood sugar can have devastating effects on the heart and kidneys.