Cardiologist warns heart patients and diabetics against extreme holiday celebrations: ‘Sudden blood sugar spike from…’

By Admin

23 Dec, 2025

The holiday season is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and indulgence in festive food and drinks. However, for people living with diabetes or heart disease, these celebrations can pose serious health risks if caution is ignored. From lavish meals to late-night parties, drastic lifestyle changes during holidays can undo months of careful health management.

According to Dr Abhijit Khadtare, cardiologist at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, year-end festivities demand a mindful and balanced approach, especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions and diabetes. He told HT Lifestyle that hospitals often witness a noticeable rise in emergency admissions after the holiday season, including cases of heart attacks, uncontrolled diabetes, and blood pressure crises. While celebrations themselves are not dangerous, the lifestyle disruptions that accompany them often are.

Below are some of the common holiday-related mistakes that can negatively impact heart patients and diabetics.

Overeating during festive feasts
The end of the year is packed with social invitations such as Christmas parties, New Year celebrations, and weddings, all centered around heavy meals. Dr Khadtare cautioned that festive foods are often loaded with sugar, refined carbohydrates, salt, and saturated fats.

For people with diabetes, such meals can cause sudden spikes in blood glucose levels, increasing the risk of hyperglycaemia and related complications. Heart patients are equally vulnerable, as excess salt and saturated fat can lead to fluid retention, raised blood pressure, and worsening of existing heart conditions.

The cardiologist also warned against the mindset of “it’s only for a few days,” stating that even short-term indulgence can reverse weeks or months of disciplined disease management.

Disrupted daily routine
Holiday celebrations often disrupt regular routines with late nights, irregular sleep, travel, and unpredictable meal timings. Dr Khadtare explained that these disruptions can interfere with medication schedules, insulin dosing, and glucose monitoring.

Poor sleep increases insulin resistance and stress hormone levels, which negatively affect both blood sugar control and heart health. Irregular routines can lead to dangerous fluctuations in blood glucose and blood pressure, increasing the risk of serious complications.

Alcohol consumption
Alcohol is often considered an essential part of celebrations, but it can be particularly harmful for people with heart disease or diabetes. Dr Khadtare noted that excessive alcohol intake can cause hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes, especially when consumed without adequate food.

Alcohol can also raise blood pressure, interfere with prescribed medications, and increase the risk of heart rhythm disturbances, making it especially risky for cardiac patients.

Emotional and physical exhaustion
The pressure of socialising, hosting events, and crowded travel can result in significant emotional and physical stress. According to Dr Khadtare, stress places additional strain on the heart and can trigger serious events.

For heart patients, stress may lead to angina, arrhythmias, or even heart attacks. In people with diabetes, stress hormones like cortisol can elevate blood sugar levels, making control difficult even with regular medication.

Final takeaway
Dr Khadtare emphasised that enjoying the festive season does not mean abandoning health discipline. Mindful eating, routine consistency, stress management, and avoiding alcohol can help heart patients and diabetics celebrate safely without putting their health at risk.

Note to readers: This article is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.