Beer = Oktoberfest.
Nope, it’s not the costumes, it’s not the beer halls, it’s not the bratwursts… it’s definitely the beer that makes the Oktoberfest. However, if you’re diabetic, you might be wondering if you can still enjoy Oktoberfest with all its large beer halls with pints upon pints of glorious Bavarian beer. Well… of course! Here are five ways in which you can still enjoy Oktoberfest even if you’re a diabetic.
1. Stick to Low-Carb Beers
For some people, there’s really not much difference between high-carb and low-carb beers. The former might be less bitter or a bit, well, light, but it still does its job. However, for some, the difference in the calories ultimately causes a difference in flavor – something that is unforgivable to most beer connoisseurs. However, for most drinkers, the difference is negligible. Ask for “lite” beers and don’t be discouraged by “Are you kidding me?” looks you’ll be undoubtedly receiving.
2. Have Fun Dressing Up
Other than the beer, you can also try dressing up in traditional Bavarian outfits called trachten. This will help you blend in with all the people in Munich and will make your Oktoberfest experience more fun and fulfilling.
Women wore traditional dirndl – this can either be in one-piece or in two-piece. It consists of a white shirt and a dress with an apron tied around it. Men, on the other hand, wear lederhosen. These are traditional Bavarian leather shorts that are slightly above the knee and come in either dark or light brown.
3. Check out the Sausages
A visit to Munich, or even to Germany for that matter, wouldn’t be complete without sampling their sausages or brats. There are many stands outside the beer halls that sell authentic Bavarian sausages that you absolutely have to try. Also, this would go really well with Sauerkraut and mustard. Do keep in mind, though, that these sausages, while low in actual sugar, might be high in calories and cholesterol.
4. Nibble on the Pretzels and other High-Carb Foods
It’s will be practically heresy if you were to go to Oktoberfest and not sample one of their brezen – large and soft pretzels. There’s also the potato or flour dumplings ort knodel and the potato pancakes or reiberdatschi. However, as a diabetic whose blood sugar level will surely shoot up once you start indulging yourself with these high-carb dishes, all you can do is sample some of the potato or flour dishes and nibble on an entire pretzel for the whole day.
5. When in Doubt, Sauerkraut
You’ll eat sauerkraut or pickled cabbage with almost anything when you’re attending Oktoberfest. This is especially delicious when paired with Bavarian sausages or even when just eating it as-is. Also, sauerkraut is good for you. It has dietary fiber and contains Vitamins C and K, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.
Everything in moderation
You’re in Munich to celebrate Oktoberfest with friends and not overindulge in alcohol and all the other delightful yet filled to the brim with carbohydrates food. Besides, there are plenty of activities that you can do other than drink lots and lots of beer. Interesting stuff that won’t lead to diabetic stroke.
