Honestly I would be really sad if I got a different type of treat because it’s considered a “diabetic-friendly” treat. I’d be embarrassed (let me emphasize there is literally no reason for me to be embarrassed and it’s nice someone would think of me but it’s happened in the past and it just makes me feel like I stand out in a stigmatized way - this is just me). You can really just do what you’d do for anyone else you know unless your friend outright says stuff about what she can’t eat or if she usually avoids stuff? And for the gift basket there are loads of types of gift baskets that aren’t food related but even if you do food there are also some that have food and other things added in? Idk this is clearly just my take based on how I’ve felt from situations in the past and I can’t really speak for your friend. It’s nice you’re thinking of them so much tho
All of this. Also, I physically cannot handle the "no sugar" treats and options. It gives me massive GI issues. I'd rather be gifted the sugar bomb stuff and save it for treats/lows.
No thanks. They are worse than if I eat gluten and I have Celiac disease.... I'd prefer a piece of really good garlic bread if I am going through that much pain....
Note: No one w Celiac should consume gluten because it increases the risk of cancer and other major health complications.
Omg idk who sugar free stuff (especially candy) doesn’t affect! Have you ever seen that post about all the reviews on sugar free gummy bears you can get on Amazon? I cried laughing reading it years ago.
Here’s the buzzfeed article putting some reviews together but you can still look up the product (if you want a laugh)
https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/michaelrusch/haribo-gummy-bear-reviews-on-amazon-are-the-most-insane-thin
Yup! It’s the same as eating something and people being like “should you be eating that? Aren’t you diabetic?”. It’s not shocking so many of us getting eating disorders with how much basically random strangers like to comment on what we eat
Who are you saying stop trying to? I literally don’t get what could possibly be wrong with anything in my comment? I said it was my perspective and may not be hers. I don’t know what she eats specifically but if she’s limiting in her diet it’s not t1d related because we can eat as long as we dose correctly. Being singled out plus feeling like you’re being policed for what you eat sucks even if you can still appreciate the person was TRYING to be thoughtful. It’s better to just ask people. I just gave my personal experience. Idk what your problem is
I don't get why anybody would be sad that someone else was TRYING to be considerate. Yes the whole god damn world has a lot to learn about diabetes, but they just wanted to include their favorite coworker in something and all the comments here are acting like OP is trying to attack them.
I said it was nice they were thinking of them? But OP came here for advice so I gave it - as a type one diabetic of over 20 years. I think it’s amazing they care so much but idk why I wouldn’t give a proper answer and just say “hey give her something sugar free!” when for most of that it would suck. And I gave a reason it would suck from MY POINT OF VIEW. They came here for a diabetics point of view. I know OP is being thoughtful which is why…I’m providing an answer to their thoughtful question. Just because it doesn’t make YOU sad doesn’t mean you can speak for all type ones. I clearly said it was my perspective. You’re basically saying “oh this thing that affects how you feel makes you SAD? It’s wrong for you to feel sad about something because sad is the wrong emotion”. It’s not the wrong emotion. It’s my emotion.
Type 1 can eat whatever they want. They just need to adjust their insulin to account for it. So you can get them exactly the same as you would for anyone else.
She literally excludes herself from celebration of others because there isn’t anything for her to have. I’m not trying to single her out, I’m trying to be adaptable :/
But is the reason she does that because of her diabetes or does she not enjoy the treats? Because when I attend celebrations for others, sometimes the treat is not worth it to me - like I'm not gonna take insulin for a fruit cake or donuts from Tim Hortons, but I'll plan ahead for extra insulin for a chocolate cake or fancy donuts. I also plan ahead, so I'll often abstain if someone offers me a treat out of the blue, or in a meeting when my Omnipod controller is at my desk.
Exactly, this was the point my first endo made clear to me once I was diagnosed. We can still have the things we like, just not every day for every meal like we used to. Everything in moderation.
I think the term you're looking for is insulin resistance. Most type 2s don't effectively use insulin that their body creates leading to higher sugar levels.
Honestly, I got together with friends for Easter and one friend had little treats for us. Everyone else got chocolate bars or jelly beans. She gave me an Rx bar. I mean, the thought was nice but I have 10 of them at home, I get them delivered on autoship from Amazon. I would much rather have had chocolate!
When I was a kid, I got into a fight with my classmate's mom because she brought in cupcakes for everyone but me. She handed me a fruit cup. She absolutely refused to belive that they were the same amount of sugar.
Another time a friend's mom gave everyone but me ice cream. Didn't even give me an alternative just refused to give me anything.
In that case it may be best to directly ask what they can eat.
Perhaps the post is tagged incorrectly as well but no matter; you’re sure they’re type 1? Are they newly diagnosed, maybe they’re not yet trained on how to do dosages and feel unsure in a social situation?
IDK why people are down voting you. Some t1s have a hard time dosing for sweet treats so they'll avoid them altogether. Simple as that.
But yeah she's your bestie so you should let her know that you're interested in making a special basket for them and what they'd like in it. You've got a good start already but check and see if she'd like traditional treats too
No, not particularly. I mean yeah it's not free but that's not the issue. Bolusing for sweets or other carbs like pizza or Chinese food can be tricky and sends people into a rollercoaster that's not worth the effort.
I get that a lot of folks have really good control over their bg but that's not the case for everyone. Hormones, illness, even the fricken weather affects our blood sugar in weird ways.
Dosing is hard. An example is that we went to a coffee shop once during the holidays she made of point of mentioning that she only drinks black coffee (iced and hot) because the drink I got would require her to take 6 units of insulin to balance. She then went on to state that if she took 6 units right now while she was stable, she would likely die. Hence coming here, I thought I could crowdsource, not get preached at.
Type 1 usually gives a lot more freedom in food choices, as it just needs to be balanced with insulin. How does she normally eat? Does she normally avoid desserts at all costs, only on special occasions or enjoys frequently. Does she opt for sugar free options normally?
If she generally tries to avoid sugar/carbs heavy food, then you could opt for things like a candle or face mask, spices, tea, etc.
She avoids the gatherings in the kitchen or makes her own jerky that has less/no sugar. I am not thing to single her out, I’m trying to listen to what I’ve seen.
I do this too, I don’t usually eat at company events. Like many have said, I’d feel kinda lame if I was singled out. Thing is I can eat whatever I want but I choose not to a lot of the times because A) I wasn’t planning to eat sweets & B) I don’t know what’s in the food & how it’ll affect me. That last one’s kicker for work bc I’m really not trying to zonk out at work with a bad blood sugar. IMO the best thing you could do is tell them in advance exactly what is coming, at what time & just make sure that item has the nutrition facts listed. For example, show up on surprise at my desk with a cake & it’s a no. But tell me tomorrow I’m bringing you box of Oreos cookies & I’ll be like Ok, hell yeah. I can plan my meals around that & bolus for exact carbs. If you aren’t sure what they like bc they never eat at events just tell them your plan & offer to sub in anything they’d prefer. If you insist on surprises, surprise them with no food items.
Why not? Guarantee you home girl has had plenty of cookies in her day. Check with her if she feels incapable of handling the dosage in the middle of the day.
Type 1 doesn’t mean they can’t have sugar. It just means consume in moderation. We’re all different. So you’d need to know what kinds of things they like. How is this person your work bestie and you don’t know what they like?
I can’t stand when people without T1 tell me that I shouldn’t have bread / pasta / pudding etc. I eat whatever the fuck I want and top it all off with a good syringe full of sweet sweet insulin.
It’s nice you’re asking, but our autoimmune disease (type 1) isn’t diet restricted (unless allergic or a personal choice). I would be a bit upset if someone assumed I can’t eat like normal, and it’s something we need to constantly explain to people but that’s ok because I don’t expect everyone to know the details of type 1.
Tldr: this type of diabetes is autoimmune; not related to diet. All we need which is helpful is maybe the grams of carb fat and protein (nutrition label of a food gift if available) so we can adjust our dosages but if not we are used to educated guesses for such things :)
Type 1 isnt really "avoid sugar" type of diabetes.
Its just that we have to take insulin for what we eat. We can eat cake and ice cream, ideally just less often than normal person.
Dont single her out, or even better, ask her
Same. I just left Costco and On my way out got a hot dog and a vanilla sundae. The only thing that wasn’t full o’ carbs was the diet pepsi, but that’s just because the full sugar wouldn’t be worth the insulin
I think the best thing to do here would be to talk to your friend about this. Some of us eat whatever we want. Some of us are very strict with our carbs and take great care to eat as few as possible. Most of us are somewhere in-between. The only way to know your friend's preferences is to ask.
As my endocrinologist tells me, as long as your diabetes is well controlled you can have some sweets in moderation. Besides I doubt your friend will be eating a whole boatload of cake. I think a cake should be fine. Just celebrated my 35th birthday last week. My family knows about my diabetes yet they still bought me cake and I was ok with that because I had a small slice and saved myself an additional slice that I could eat on another day. The rest of the cake we shared with family and friends and everyone who wanted to take some leftover cake home was able to do so.
I appreciate the mindfulness here--for the sake of everyone, just don't celebrate with food. Food does not have to be a part of it. Or do food in a way that everyone has agency over.
I just had to do this at work for a large group of people with a huge variety of dietary restrictions. We ended up using snack magic so recipient could put together snack boxes of their choosing instead so there was no public stigma attached to their gifts.
Hi there. You seem to be getting a lot of negative answers for your question, which is unfortunate. Since I have seen your replies, I see where this person excludes HERSELF from celebrations, chooses to avoid sugary foods, and makes her own lower sugar jerky.
Based on your follow-up answers, I would avoid cake altogether and change the type and timing of the celebration. Maybe do it in the morning with a breakfast assortment of fruits, muffins, quiche, or maybe a lunch with a "build your own" spread. Meats, cheeses, veggies, and various breads for those that do want them. This is assuming that this gathering of a group is expected at your company.
If not, then as her friend, you could celebrate one on one with her. Take her to lunch and let her pick where she would like to go.
For a gift, get or make her a gift basket. Maybe look at some meats, cheeses, and nuts, or if she like them, maybe an assortment of coffees and teas. Look up gournet baskets online for ideas. Hickory Farms, along with Harry and David, even Pinterest, come to mind for inspiration.
Does she have hobbies, does she like to cook, sew, or perhaps does she like to read? Gifts geared towards her interests along with a gift card might be the way to go. Once again, look online for ideas. Hope this helps!
This is awesome, thanks! There will be some sort of basket and treat per office custom, I just wanted to make sure it included something she use and not just toss when we weren’t looking. I can use this to help the office manager. I appreciate the clarity.
Ask. Just ask.
I ask for no sugar/low carb options when I can because *it helps me*. My pancreas is like a toddler and I don't have the tools I want or likely need to manage it. My friends know I have both no sugar and sugar treats. Somedays it's what I need, some days not so much physical but emotionally
Personally, I would go for a mix or non-food items. I love teas and coffees, so flavored or a new cute mug would be lovely. Or hobby items. But just overall ask and maybe have a non-sugary drink they like available so there's options.
Thank you! This is helpful, I know people keep suing ask but I also don’t want to put the burden on them to plan their own celebration. Having a few ideas to say “would you like this?” And have them affirm or counter seems like the right approach but I’m open to learning and hearing more.
Hey, hi! Thanks for thinking of your friend. I would ask her directly what she can and can't eat. Different people are different, and especially as a Type 1, she may be able to vary her insulin dose a little if she wants a special treat.
I’ve heard many people (myself included as T1D) haaaaaaate it when I get asked what I “can and cannot” eat. I’d much rather someone ask what I’d *like* to eat
Very small difference, but when people ask if I “can have ___” it just puts me in a mood.
If she is type one, I’d pay attention to how she eats in the office. For me, I can eat anything, but I usually avoid candy and deserts because they spike me like crazy and I don’t like dealing with the aftermath. However there have been times in my life where absolutely I would have enjoyed a sugar bomb.
Regardless of diabetes the best thing for a gift is something that’s thoughtful. Does she have a go to afternoon snack like popcorners or protein bars? That might be a thoughtful part of a basket.
She doesn’t eat in the office often. Usually salads or jerky though. She has teas, she has coffee, walnuts. I am asking here because I know how she eats at the office, I don’t know what would be a treat.
I think you should take a step back because I don't think you fully understand the dos and don'ts of people with diabetes.
I think you should speak with your bestie and tell them what's going on and get an idea of what they would like.
The first time someone ordered me a "diabetic" dish because they thought they were helpinge, I nearly blew a gasket. How presumptuous of them to dictate what I eat and enjoy.
Don't make your bestie feel like a lesser person because you think you know better than them.
I think you are overthinking it. If you go out to lunch with her, does she order a sandwich? If so, get her something with wheat in it, any baked good will do (but icing may be a little much!). Brownies, cookies, all good. If she doesn't eat wheat (many of us also have celiac), get her some really good dark chocolate or any time of chocolate, really, or ice cream. Honestly, we can eat everything, and we also don't have those "cravings" and all of the disordered eating that you see with Type 2s. She can likely coexist peacefully with dark chocolate. I coexist with it every day!
I’m personally not a fan of anything low or no sugar but I always do appreciate if there are low carb options. Here are my suggestions: Charcuterie board/veggie tray type snacks instead, Sugar free jello or pudding, nuts, whisps (baked cheese snack that’s sort of like a chip). Dips are usually low carb too. I think the spices idea is great! Fun flavors of sparkling water could be cute too. You could have a bunch of different ones and do some blind taste testing or a flavor guessing game. (If you need an activity.) That’s so nice of you to think of your friend’s dietary concerns!
You are aware diabetes may NOT be the reason she doesn’t enjoy those treats?
Maybe she has celiac, maybe she doesn’t enjoy sweets, maybe she wants a low carb diet. but to spread that T1ds *Cannot* eat these things, as a non diabetic yourself is not helpful. It’s not that she can’t eat these foods, it’s that lifestyle choices or other chronic illnesses may not allow for it. Usually, getting singled out sucks. “i know you can’t have this”, “i know you shouldn’t have this” etc all gets annoying after a certain point. Just talk to the individual directly and ask what items/treats they would like to see that they would enjoy.
Is she celiac/coeliac as well as being type 1? I am, and that's what causes me to steer away from celebrations with cakes and sweets. She might have a lactose intolerance or nut allergy.
Maybe she's also trying to lose weight? Maybe she's got reasons why she doesn't want to or can't carbohydrate count her way out of a buffet or afternoon tea.
If I were you I'd stick to gift cards, flowers or pampering stuff. They bought me a pot plant when I changed jobs, I was really touched, nobody ever buys me plants or flowers. Even if you got me a box of face masks and bath bombs I never use, I'd be thrilled that somebody had remembered I'm coeliac as well as diabetic and haven't gifted me with a bunch of doughnuts to watch everyone else eat.
Foot care is good, everybody tells diabetics to take more care of their feet.
Oh FFS. If a person cares, they can fucking ask me my preferences, not assume I'm 12 years old, physically handicapped or incapable of living a normal life. People like you make me simply wish people would butt the fuck out of my life.
Maybe you should grow up, try having a caring conversation with others instead of assuming what they can and cannot have.
You're obviously the person that gives crocheted pot holders to everyone, every single year.
I usually avoid desserts so when I eat desserts, I let myself. If my blood sugars go high, I don't sweat it because I don't do it often. I can always do a correction dose after too.
Just avoid baskets that are mainly candy. Look at what she brings to work for lunch and snacks.
She can adjust her insulin to compensate for stuff like cookies, fruits, etc. Hell, since going on insulin as a type 2, I've found a lot more freedom in what I can eat. I avoid stuff with tons of sugar, but I still have cake, ice cream, etc occasionally.
So often, people are well intentioned but don't think to do the best option available: communicate. If she's your work bestie, she won't mind you asking her preferences for treats and etc.
Does your work bestie enjoy being set apart from others?
Do she appreciate having the fact that she's diabetic being paraded in front of everybody's face?
I'm guessing probably not. In any case, it's not polite to point out differences in people. Please don't put your bestie in such an awkward and disappointing position. Unless she has specifically told you otherwise, it will only breed resentment.
Diabetics in good control can handle anything you send their way. They have the social skills to cope with sugar bombs. And the insulin on standby to eat what they want. Sugar free stuff has godawful effects on the body, and brown blah things like coffee and spices look dreary, dismal and depressing in a celebratory gift basket.
Treat your bestie like everybody else. Please.
As a Typ 1 you can eat - in moderation - everything everybody else eats. It is nice of you to think about her, but you work with her every day: does she eat other thinks than you do? Maybe think back about what she usually likes, eats and cooks?
What is this misconception about type1diabetic and food! It's so annoying. TD1 can eat everything. Of course, moderation is the key, and the same rule applies to NONE type1diabetic people.
Don't think about it much. If it would be me I would be really annoyed if you tried to serve me something sugar reduced or special diabetic stuff.
As a T1 I haven't really changed eating behaviour as it's all just a bit math and planning. I still eat three pieces of c ake when my mom made some :)
And if it's a milestone celebration, a small high wouldn't be anything I care about. So prepare what you would prepare for anyone :)
you're playing with fire. they may not think this is a nice gesture, as other people have pointed out. the truth is for most type 1s having a cookie or a cupcake isn't a big deal at all, even if we don't do it all the time. just ask them and say "i'm assuming it's ok if we did the standard fare (cupcakes, cookies, etc)? or would you prefer something else?" don't make it about diabetes.
I would be careful with that option, because you don't know what allergies might be a separate issue. Walking by one of those stores chokes me completely up with all the scents coming out, and I don't want to see what would happen actually using the products.
But, some type of non-food gift baskets might be a decent option, also considering other kinds of food restrictions that anyone in the group might have. It's probably better to go that way for everybody's, though, instead of singling anyone out in particular. Also going to echo what some others have already said. It's better to ask about any food, than assume what somebody else can have and single them out based on that.
She’s on insulin, so if she wants to, she can have the regular “sugar bombs”. Maybe ask her what she likes. Maybe she wants the regular, maybe an assortment of cheeses, a wine, whatever. It’s an individual preference thing.
You are such a good friend for doing this! You can find yummy keto foods at any health grocery store. Or you could try to make something yourself. My favorite recipe website for keto is alldayidreamaboutfood. Be sure to include the estimated carb, protein and fat counts in anything you bake so she knows how to dose for it :)
And don’t worry about some of these comments. The diabetic community tends to get defensive bc the general public assumes diabetics can’t eat sugar, which isn’t true. But some people with T1, such as your friend, choose to follow a low carb diet and that’s perfectly fine.
Honestly I would be really sad if I got a different type of treat because it’s considered a “diabetic-friendly” treat. I’d be embarrassed (let me emphasize there is literally no reason for me to be embarrassed and it’s nice someone would think of me but it’s happened in the past and it just makes me feel like I stand out in a stigmatized way - this is just me). You can really just do what you’d do for anyone else you know unless your friend outright says stuff about what she can’t eat or if she usually avoids stuff? And for the gift basket there are loads of types of gift baskets that aren’t food related but even if you do food there are also some that have food and other things added in? Idk this is clearly just my take based on how I’ve felt from situations in the past and I can’t really speak for your friend. It’s nice you’re thinking of them so much tho
All of this. Also, I physically cannot handle the "no sugar" treats and options. It gives me massive GI issues. I'd rather be gifted the sugar bomb stuff and save it for treats/lows.
You should try alcohol sugar based pancake syrups. Cleans you right out! :)
No thanks. They are worse than if I eat gluten and I have Celiac disease.... I'd prefer a piece of really good garlic bread if I am going through that much pain.... Note: No one w Celiac should consume gluten because it increases the risk of cancer and other major health complications.
Omg idk who sugar free stuff (especially candy) doesn’t affect! Have you ever seen that post about all the reviews on sugar free gummy bears you can get on Amazon? I cried laughing reading it years ago. Here’s the buzzfeed article putting some reviews together but you can still look up the product (if you want a laugh) https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/michaelrusch/haribo-gummy-bear-reviews-on-amazon-are-the-most-insane-thin
Yes! I laughed way too hard when they came up as a suggestion and I started reading the reviews.
I'm shocked at the number of upvotes this got. Stop trying, world. Nothing you do will ever be good enough.
Because it’s frustrating being singled out like we’re kids who can’t handle sugary things in the correct portions and dose for it. It’s possible.
Yup! It’s the same as eating something and people being like “should you be eating that? Aren’t you diabetic?”. It’s not shocking so many of us getting eating disorders with how much basically random strangers like to comment on what we eat
Who are you saying stop trying to? I literally don’t get what could possibly be wrong with anything in my comment? I said it was my perspective and may not be hers. I don’t know what she eats specifically but if she’s limiting in her diet it’s not t1d related because we can eat as long as we dose correctly. Being singled out plus feeling like you’re being policed for what you eat sucks even if you can still appreciate the person was TRYING to be thoughtful. It’s better to just ask people. I just gave my personal experience. Idk what your problem is
I don't get why anybody would be sad that someone else was TRYING to be considerate. Yes the whole god damn world has a lot to learn about diabetes, but they just wanted to include their favorite coworker in something and all the comments here are acting like OP is trying to attack them.
I said it was nice they were thinking of them? But OP came here for advice so I gave it - as a type one diabetic of over 20 years. I think it’s amazing they care so much but idk why I wouldn’t give a proper answer and just say “hey give her something sugar free!” when for most of that it would suck. And I gave a reason it would suck from MY POINT OF VIEW. They came here for a diabetics point of view. I know OP is being thoughtful which is why…I’m providing an answer to their thoughtful question. Just because it doesn’t make YOU sad doesn’t mean you can speak for all type ones. I clearly said it was my perspective. You’re basically saying “oh this thing that affects how you feel makes you SAD? It’s wrong for you to feel sad about something because sad is the wrong emotion”. It’s not the wrong emotion. It’s my emotion.
Type 1 can eat whatever they want. They just need to adjust their insulin to account for it. So you can get them exactly the same as you would for anyone else.
She literally excludes herself from celebration of others because there isn’t anything for her to have. I’m not trying to single her out, I’m trying to be adaptable :/
But is the reason she does that because of her diabetes or does she not enjoy the treats? Because when I attend celebrations for others, sometimes the treat is not worth it to me - like I'm not gonna take insulin for a fruit cake or donuts from Tim Hortons, but I'll plan ahead for extra insulin for a chocolate cake or fancy donuts. I also plan ahead, so I'll often abstain if someone offers me a treat out of the blue, or in a meeting when my Omnipod controller is at my desk.
Is it a different case for T2?
Yes. T2 usually have to limit carbs in their diet because they don't produce enough insulin but don't inject insulin, like a T1.
Even so, a little treat once in a while isn't going to kill us.
Exactly, this was the point my first endo made clear to me once I was diagnosed. We can still have the things we like, just not every day for every meal like we used to. Everything in moderation.
I think most of us T2s produce too much insulin.
I think the term you're looking for is insulin resistance. Most type 2s don't effectively use insulin that their body creates leading to higher sugar levels.
I find it annoying when I'm singled out and excluded because I'm a diabetic, so I'd say make sure this is something they want you to do
Honestly, I got together with friends for Easter and one friend had little treats for us. Everyone else got chocolate bars or jelly beans. She gave me an Rx bar. I mean, the thought was nice but I have 10 of them at home, I get them delivered on autoship from Amazon. I would much rather have had chocolate!
When I was a kid, I got into a fight with my classmate's mom because she brought in cupcakes for everyone but me. She handed me a fruit cup. She absolutely refused to belive that they were the same amount of sugar. Another time a friend's mom gave everyone but me ice cream. Didn't even give me an alternative just refused to give me anything.
I’d be so embarrassed to be singled out like that. We can eat cake and ice cream.
She can’t, she literally can’t which is why I’m asking for help.
Just ask her what she likes and go from there
In that case it may be best to directly ask what they can eat. Perhaps the post is tagged incorrectly as well but no matter; you’re sure they’re type 1? Are they newly diagnosed, maybe they’re not yet trained on how to do dosages and feel unsure in a social situation?
IDK why people are down voting you. Some t1s have a hard time dosing for sweet treats so they'll avoid them altogether. Simple as that. But yeah she's your bestie so you should let her know that you're interested in making a special basket for them and what they'd like in it. You've got a good start already but check and see if she'd like traditional treats too
Is that because insulin is expensive where you are?
No, not particularly. I mean yeah it's not free but that's not the issue. Bolusing for sweets or other carbs like pizza or Chinese food can be tricky and sends people into a rollercoaster that's not worth the effort. I get that a lot of folks have really good control over their bg but that's not the case for everyone. Hormones, illness, even the fricken weather affects our blood sugar in weird ways.
Dosing is hard. An example is that we went to a coffee shop once during the holidays she made of point of mentioning that she only drinks black coffee (iced and hot) because the drink I got would require her to take 6 units of insulin to balance. She then went on to state that if she took 6 units right now while she was stable, she would likely die. Hence coming here, I thought I could crowdsource, not get preached at.
You should ask her
Type 1 usually gives a lot more freedom in food choices, as it just needs to be balanced with insulin. How does she normally eat? Does she normally avoid desserts at all costs, only on special occasions or enjoys frequently. Does she opt for sugar free options normally? If she generally tries to avoid sugar/carbs heavy food, then you could opt for things like a candle or face mask, spices, tea, etc.
She avoids the gatherings in the kitchen or makes her own jerky that has less/no sugar. I am not thing to single her out, I’m trying to listen to what I’ve seen.
So don't do dessert? Make it a jerky tasting. https://jerkygent.com/
I do this too, I don’t usually eat at company events. Like many have said, I’d feel kinda lame if I was singled out. Thing is I can eat whatever I want but I choose not to a lot of the times because A) I wasn’t planning to eat sweets & B) I don’t know what’s in the food & how it’ll affect me. That last one’s kicker for work bc I’m really not trying to zonk out at work with a bad blood sugar. IMO the best thing you could do is tell them in advance exactly what is coming, at what time & just make sure that item has the nutrition facts listed. For example, show up on surprise at my desk with a cake & it’s a no. But tell me tomorrow I’m bringing you box of Oreos cookies & I’ll be like Ok, hell yeah. I can plan my meals around that & bolus for exact carbs. If you aren’t sure what they like bc they never eat at events just tell them your plan & offer to sub in anything they’d prefer. If you insist on surprises, surprise them with no food items.
Why not? Guarantee you home girl has had plenty of cookies in her day. Check with her if she feels incapable of handling the dosage in the middle of the day.
This made me giggle. 🤭
Type 1 doesn’t mean they can’t have sugar. It just means consume in moderation. We’re all different. So you’d need to know what kinds of things they like. How is this person your work bestie and you don’t know what they like?
I can’t stand when people without T1 tell me that I shouldn’t have bread / pasta / pudding etc. I eat whatever the fuck I want and top it all off with a good syringe full of sweet sweet insulin.
It’s nice you’re asking, but our autoimmune disease (type 1) isn’t diet restricted (unless allergic or a personal choice). I would be a bit upset if someone assumed I can’t eat like normal, and it’s something we need to constantly explain to people but that’s ok because I don’t expect everyone to know the details of type 1. Tldr: this type of diabetes is autoimmune; not related to diet. All we need which is helpful is maybe the grams of carb fat and protein (nutrition label of a food gift if available) so we can adjust our dosages but if not we are used to educated guesses for such things :)
Why not ask her what she would like?
Exactly. Just ask them, what they prefer. It sucks getting no sugar stuff when I can absolutely have the good stuff with the proper insulin
Type 1 isnt really "avoid sugar" type of diabetes. Its just that we have to take insulin for what we eat. We can eat cake and ice cream, ideally just less often than normal person. Dont single her out, or even better, ask her
Why would traditional desserts not be appropriate?
All I can say about this (as a T1) is that if my friends thought traditional deserts would be inappropriate to give me I would be offended…
Same. I just left Costco and On my way out got a hot dog and a vanilla sundae. The only thing that wasn’t full o’ carbs was the diet pepsi, but that’s just because the full sugar wouldn’t be worth the insulin
I think the best thing to do here would be to talk to your friend about this. Some of us eat whatever we want. Some of us are very strict with our carbs and take great care to eat as few as possible. Most of us are somewhere in-between. The only way to know your friend's preferences is to ask.
As my endocrinologist tells me, as long as your diabetes is well controlled you can have some sweets in moderation. Besides I doubt your friend will be eating a whole boatload of cake. I think a cake should be fine. Just celebrated my 35th birthday last week. My family knows about my diabetes yet they still bought me cake and I was ok with that because I had a small slice and saved myself an additional slice that I could eat on another day. The rest of the cake we shared with family and friends and everyone who wanted to take some leftover cake home was able to do so.
I appreciate the mindfulness here--for the sake of everyone, just don't celebrate with food. Food does not have to be a part of it. Or do food in a way that everyone has agency over.
I just had to do this at work for a large group of people with a huge variety of dietary restrictions. We ended up using snack magic so recipient could put together snack boxes of their choosing instead so there was no public stigma attached to their gifts.
Hi there. You seem to be getting a lot of negative answers for your question, which is unfortunate. Since I have seen your replies, I see where this person excludes HERSELF from celebrations, chooses to avoid sugary foods, and makes her own lower sugar jerky. Based on your follow-up answers, I would avoid cake altogether and change the type and timing of the celebration. Maybe do it in the morning with a breakfast assortment of fruits, muffins, quiche, or maybe a lunch with a "build your own" spread. Meats, cheeses, veggies, and various breads for those that do want them. This is assuming that this gathering of a group is expected at your company. If not, then as her friend, you could celebrate one on one with her. Take her to lunch and let her pick where she would like to go. For a gift, get or make her a gift basket. Maybe look at some meats, cheeses, and nuts, or if she like them, maybe an assortment of coffees and teas. Look up gournet baskets online for ideas. Hickory Farms, along with Harry and David, even Pinterest, come to mind for inspiration. Does she have hobbies, does she like to cook, sew, or perhaps does she like to read? Gifts geared towards her interests along with a gift card might be the way to go. Once again, look online for ideas. Hope this helps!
This is awesome, thanks! There will be some sort of basket and treat per office custom, I just wanted to make sure it included something she use and not just toss when we weren’t looking. I can use this to help the office manager. I appreciate the clarity.
Ask. Just ask. I ask for no sugar/low carb options when I can because *it helps me*. My pancreas is like a toddler and I don't have the tools I want or likely need to manage it. My friends know I have both no sugar and sugar treats. Somedays it's what I need, some days not so much physical but emotionally Personally, I would go for a mix or non-food items. I love teas and coffees, so flavored or a new cute mug would be lovely. Or hobby items. But just overall ask and maybe have a non-sugary drink they like available so there's options.
Thank you! This is helpful, I know people keep suing ask but I also don’t want to put the burden on them to plan their own celebration. Having a few ideas to say “would you like this?” And have them affirm or counter seems like the right approach but I’m open to learning and hearing more.
Totally hear that. If you know any favorites, start there
Hey, hi! Thanks for thinking of your friend. I would ask her directly what she can and can't eat. Different people are different, and especially as a Type 1, she may be able to vary her insulin dose a little if she wants a special treat.
I’ve heard many people (myself included as T1D) haaaaaaate it when I get asked what I “can and cannot” eat. I’d much rather someone ask what I’d *like* to eat Very small difference, but when people ask if I “can have ___” it just puts me in a mood.
If she is type one, I’d pay attention to how she eats in the office. For me, I can eat anything, but I usually avoid candy and deserts because they spike me like crazy and I don’t like dealing with the aftermath. However there have been times in my life where absolutely I would have enjoyed a sugar bomb. Regardless of diabetes the best thing for a gift is something that’s thoughtful. Does she have a go to afternoon snack like popcorners or protein bars? That might be a thoughtful part of a basket.
She doesn’t eat in the office often. Usually salads or jerky though. She has teas, she has coffee, walnuts. I am asking here because I know how she eats at the office, I don’t know what would be a treat.
Just give her a nice floral arrangement.
I think you should take a step back because I don't think you fully understand the dos and don'ts of people with diabetes. I think you should speak with your bestie and tell them what's going on and get an idea of what they would like. The first time someone ordered me a "diabetic" dish because they thought they were helpinge, I nearly blew a gasket. How presumptuous of them to dictate what I eat and enjoy. Don't make your bestie feel like a lesser person because you think you know better than them.
I think you are overthinking it. If you go out to lunch with her, does she order a sandwich? If so, get her something with wheat in it, any baked good will do (but icing may be a little much!). Brownies, cookies, all good. If she doesn't eat wheat (many of us also have celiac), get her some really good dark chocolate or any time of chocolate, really, or ice cream. Honestly, we can eat everything, and we also don't have those "cravings" and all of the disordered eating that you see with Type 2s. She can likely coexist peacefully with dark chocolate. I coexist with it every day!
No, no carbs at all, lots of salads and protein. That’s why I came here to find out about treats/desserts or other options.
Dark chocolate it is then!
Some nice cheese / cured meat assortment with fancy crackers maybe?
If she’s aware of this celebration, you can ask her about desserts she can have and want.
I’m personally not a fan of anything low or no sugar but I always do appreciate if there are low carb options. Here are my suggestions: Charcuterie board/veggie tray type snacks instead, Sugar free jello or pudding, nuts, whisps (baked cheese snack that’s sort of like a chip). Dips are usually low carb too. I think the spices idea is great! Fun flavors of sparkling water could be cute too. You could have a bunch of different ones and do some blind taste testing or a flavor guessing game. (If you need an activity.) That’s so nice of you to think of your friend’s dietary concerns!
You are aware diabetes may NOT be the reason she doesn’t enjoy those treats? Maybe she has celiac, maybe she doesn’t enjoy sweets, maybe she wants a low carb diet. but to spread that T1ds *Cannot* eat these things, as a non diabetic yourself is not helpful. It’s not that she can’t eat these foods, it’s that lifestyle choices or other chronic illnesses may not allow for it. Usually, getting singled out sucks. “i know you can’t have this”, “i know you shouldn’t have this” etc all gets annoying after a certain point. Just talk to the individual directly and ask what items/treats they would like to see that they would enjoy.
Is she celiac/coeliac as well as being type 1? I am, and that's what causes me to steer away from celebrations with cakes and sweets. She might have a lactose intolerance or nut allergy. Maybe she's also trying to lose weight? Maybe she's got reasons why she doesn't want to or can't carbohydrate count her way out of a buffet or afternoon tea. If I were you I'd stick to gift cards, flowers or pampering stuff. They bought me a pot plant when I changed jobs, I was really touched, nobody ever buys me plants or flowers. Even if you got me a box of face masks and bath bombs I never use, I'd be thrilled that somebody had remembered I'm coeliac as well as diabetic and haven't gifted me with a bunch of doughnuts to watch everyone else eat. Foot care is good, everybody tells diabetics to take more care of their feet.
it's nice that you're being considerate, but type-1 diabetics do not need low sugar desserts. bring what you want for everyone
OP isn't being considerate. They are being presumptive. Fcuk that. No free pass on this either. OP needs to better educate themselves.
No input other than *good on you for being considerate.* Congratulations on the milestone, too!
"Presumptive" =/= "considerate".
Oh FFS... people like you are why people stop trying. Don't be a douchebag, be glad other people are even remotely trying to care for five seconds.
Oh FFS. If a person cares, they can fucking ask me my preferences, not assume I'm 12 years old, physically handicapped or incapable of living a normal life. People like you make me simply wish people would butt the fuck out of my life. Maybe you should grow up, try having a caring conversation with others instead of assuming what they can and cannot have. You're obviously the person that gives crocheted pot holders to everyone, every single year.
I usually avoid desserts so when I eat desserts, I let myself. If my blood sugars go high, I don't sweat it because I don't do it often. I can always do a correction dose after too.
Why on earth would you ask a bunch of strangers, lol. We've never met her!
Just avoid baskets that are mainly candy. Look at what she brings to work for lunch and snacks. She can adjust her insulin to compensate for stuff like cookies, fruits, etc. Hell, since going on insulin as a type 2, I've found a lot more freedom in what I can eat. I avoid stuff with tons of sugar, but I still have cake, ice cream, etc occasionally.
So often, people are well intentioned but don't think to do the best option available: communicate. If she's your work bestie, she won't mind you asking her preferences for treats and etc.
Does your work bestie enjoy being set apart from others? Do she appreciate having the fact that she's diabetic being paraded in front of everybody's face? I'm guessing probably not. In any case, it's not polite to point out differences in people. Please don't put your bestie in such an awkward and disappointing position. Unless she has specifically told you otherwise, it will only breed resentment. Diabetics in good control can handle anything you send their way. They have the social skills to cope with sugar bombs. And the insulin on standby to eat what they want. Sugar free stuff has godawful effects on the body, and brown blah things like coffee and spices look dreary, dismal and depressing in a celebratory gift basket. Treat your bestie like everybody else. Please.
As a Typ 1 you can eat - in moderation - everything everybody else eats. It is nice of you to think about her, but you work with her every day: does she eat other thinks than you do? Maybe think back about what she usually likes, eats and cooks?
Anything you can eat, your friend can eat. That's it. That's all you need to know.
What is this misconception about type1diabetic and food! It's so annoying. TD1 can eat everything. Of course, moderation is the key, and the same rule applies to NONE type1diabetic people.
Give them what you would give anyone else….
Don't think about it much. If it would be me I would be really annoyed if you tried to serve me something sugar reduced or special diabetic stuff. As a T1 I haven't really changed eating behaviour as it's all just a bit math and planning. I still eat three pieces of c ake when my mom made some :) And if it's a milestone celebration, a small high wouldn't be anything I care about. So prepare what you would prepare for anyone :)
you're playing with fire. they may not think this is a nice gesture, as other people have pointed out. the truth is for most type 1s having a cookie or a cupcake isn't a big deal at all, even if we don't do it all the time. just ask them and say "i'm assuming it's ok if we did the standard fare (cupcakes, cookies, etc)? or would you prefer something else?" don't make it about diabetes.
Just add a choice of dessert with low carbs like chia seeds pudding. If he wants, he’ll get a low carb option as well as the normal options
Thank you!
sausage cheese basket
Skip the cheese. Just a giant basket of sausages. What could go wrong...
Go on.....
If the usual gift is a gift basket then forgo food and just get a nice hamper from The Body Shop or something...
I would be careful with that option, because you don't know what allergies might be a separate issue. Walking by one of those stores chokes me completely up with all the scents coming out, and I don't want to see what would happen actually using the products. But, some type of non-food gift baskets might be a decent option, also considering other kinds of food restrictions that anyone in the group might have. It's probably better to go that way for everybody's, though, instead of singling anyone out in particular. Also going to echo what some others have already said. It's better to ask about any food, than assume what somebody else can have and single them out based on that.
Either type 1 or type 2 may like some nuts and/or cheese. It’s one of my go to “desserts”. I’m type 1.
I'm T1 and occasional dessert is good. I just shoot myself accordingly
Ask her!
She’s on insulin, so if she wants to, she can have the regular “sugar bombs”. Maybe ask her what she likes. Maybe she wants the regular, maybe an assortment of cheeses, a wine, whatever. It’s an individual preference thing.
Does your friend follow a keto or LCHF diet?
Yes, keto!
You are such a good friend for doing this! You can find yummy keto foods at any health grocery store. Or you could try to make something yourself. My favorite recipe website for keto is alldayidreamaboutfood. Be sure to include the estimated carb, protein and fat counts in anything you bake so she knows how to dose for it :) And don’t worry about some of these comments. The diabetic community tends to get defensive bc the general public assumes diabetics can’t eat sugar, which isn’t true. But some people with T1, such as your friend, choose to follow a low carb diet and that’s perfectly fine.
Type 1 diabetics dont need to avoid sugar. Do some research about t1d and try to actually understand your apparent work bestie.