Birthday parties, family reunions, wedding receptions, holiday office gatherings — any event where food and drink play a starring role is a potential danger zone without the right preparation. If you know the fare will be high in fat or sugar-rich, bring along a healthy dish (your hostess will probably appreciate the contribution). Having a small snack at home before the event can help to blunt your appetite against too many temptations.

Don't forget that dancing is exercise. Check your glucose levels if you've been out on the dance floor for a while to ensure they aren't dropping too low. If food won't be available at all times during the party, bring a snack with you to fuel up. A nondiet soda or juice from the bar can help to treat a low if you're caught without glucose tablets.

If you decide to enjoy beer, wine, or a mixed drink, use caution and make sure you have a friend with you who can recognize the signs of a low and treat them accordingly. See Chapter 14 for more on avoiding lows when drinking.