We’re right in the middle of Hanukkah, lighting four candles tonight. This will be our 8th since Benny’s diagnosis, but I can’t say I’ve thought a lot about diabetes and the Festival of Lights.
Interesting then, to read a post on Diabetesmine about Hanukkah in Israel and T1D. The author, Jessica Apple, is the founder and editor of the terrific website ASweetLife and she recently founded the Diabetes Media Foundation. I was surprised to read her words; she spells out the exact opposite of how I treat holidays and food:
“Dr. Tal began to list foods I should no longer eat, which—of course—included not just anything with sugar, but most carbohydrates, including all of my favorites: pasta, pizza, pita, burekas, and cereal. To make it even more depressing, it was Hanukkah season, so Dr. Tal said potato latkes, jelly doughnuts, and the traditional chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil were all out of the question too.”
“Dr. Tal’s words ran through my mind. “Be afraid of sugar,” he’d said.”
This is a very interesting and well written post (link here). Apple weaves her T1D diagnosis through a remembrance of her families challenge of trying to keep kosher during her upbringing in Texas. She was diagnosed with T1D while pregnant with her third child. I have a lot of respect for the strength she must have shown to keep her family going and come through with a healthy pregnancy. But I think her doctor’s advice in general is way off.
I posted this comment on the blog:
I’m Jewish and you can bet your dreidel my T1D son will be eating his share of latkes, gelt and sufganiyot (jelly donuts) during Hanukkah. Of course, in moderation, but with enjoyment and without fear. I love this article, but it saddens me to think that a doctor would tell a newly diagnosed T1D to be afraid of sugar or any food. My son was dx’d before he was 2, he’ll be ten in a few days and he is allowed to eat anything. Measure, bolus and be smart (his A1cs are great). People in general have enough food issues. People with diabetes should not be taught to add fear to the mix. Have a happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, wonderful New Year and enjoy your family foods and traditions!
What do you think? Should more doctors tell us to be afraid of sugar? Would that help us achieve better health?
My front lawn right now. Really. I’m not a fan, but my kids and neighbors love it!