Millions of adults are still in the dark about what people with Type 2 diabetes can eat, with 20% under the impression they have to cut out whole food groups such as carbohydrates, and nearly a quarter (23%) thinking sugar is strictly off-limits forever.

A survey of 2,000 adults found that confusion peaks around Christmas. Four in ten admit they’ve never cooked for someone with Type 2 diabetes and wouldn’t know where to start. Over half also confessed they have little to no knowledge of how to prepare a suitable meal, and 41% wrongly assume festive favourites like mince pies are completely banned.

The research was commissioned by Abbott, which offers FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems to help those living with Type 2 diabetes stay on top of their glucose levels during the festive period.

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Jess Jacques, 37, who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at the age of 25, said: “When I was first diagnosed, I felt like I had to miss out. Now I understand it’s all about balance.

“I plan ahead, check menus, and stick to my routine so I can enjoy the festive season while staying in control of my health. Seeing my glucose levels in real time helps lift the pressure to be ‘perfect’ all the time.

"The most inclusive and caring thing families can do during the festive season is to provide options - like sugar-free drinks or low-carb foods - without making a big deal out of it.”

A separate poll of 500 people living with Type 2 diabetes found 44% ‘dread’ the festive season because of the focus on indulgent food, and nearly half have felt the need to hide their condition to fit in at social gatherings.

Almost one in five (18%) don’t feel confident managing their diabetes during the holidays, and 44% have declined invitations or skipped events altogether due to worries their needs would be overlooked or they’d feel singled out.

Three in four also said friends and family often get it wrong about what they can or can’t eat, underlining the need for better education.

Despite these challenges, many are finding ways to stay in control – as those using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are more likely to feel comfortable requesting food swaps.

More than seven in 10 (71%) of CGM users would be happy to do so when a friend is cooking for them (vs 52% without a CGM). And 51% said the same about being cooked for in a group setting (vs 43% without a CGM).

Dr Rupy Aujla, medical doctor, chef and founder of The Doctor’s Kitchen, added: “The festive season is about connection, comfort and celebration, and food plays a central role in that.

“When living with Type 2 diabetes, enjoying the holidays isn’t just about what’s on your plate – it’s about feeling confident in your food choices.

“Continuous glucose monitoring supports with this, providing real-time insights into how our body responds to food, helping people with diabetes make informed decisions that support their health – without sacrificing the joy of the occasion.”