When it comes to holiday shopping for people with diabetes, you want to be sensitive about their disease without drawing too much attention to it. Here are some great gift ideas for achieving that goal while also making sure you’re giving them something which will be appreciated and enjoyed:

Socks or Slippers

Socks and slippers are great gifts for someone with diabetes. People with this health condition should never walk around barefoot in their homes — especially in the wintertime when they’re prone to dry skin. A pair of comfortable yet slippers that they can slip their feet in are ideal.

As for socks, they can be quite pricey when they’re for people with diabetes. Look for seamless socks for sale at retail stores or online shops. They can also be found at drug stores and medical supply stores. These diabetes-friendly socks absorb sweat and moisture, reduce the risk of infection, and improve circulation.

Sugar-Free Goodies

Create a diabetic-friendly food gift basket with sugar-free snacks such as gourmet cheese, nuts, and popcorn. Look for snacks that say “diabetes” or “sugar-free.” You can also opt for sugar-free candy such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate treats.

However, dark chocolate is healthier than milk chocolate. You can even give them a sugar-free trail mix that has nuts, dried fruit, and sweets. Artificial sweeteners and sugar-free snacks can make up for the lack of sugar, but not all people enjoy them. This can make creating a gift basket even harder.

Diabetes Books

The next option would be to include some diabetes books. One classic that was published in 2004 is Think Like a Pancreas by certified diabetes educator Gray Scheiner. This book is an essential guide for anyone who’s been diagnosed with diabetes and has to take insulin.

Another great option for people dealing with the emotional effects of diabetes is Dealing with Diabetes Burnout by Ginger Vieira, which was published in 2014. Any nonfiction or fiction book can also make a great gift and could take their mind off their diabetes. Even a beautiful journal for them to write their thoughts and feelings out about their diagnosis is ideal.

Fruit Basket

Fruit is not off the menu when it comes to people living with diabetes. It’s an important part of the diet since it’s a healthy carbohydrate. Purchase a seasonal fruit basket from any grocery store or fresh farm stand.

Other companies will send “bouquets” of fresh fruit that resemble flowers but may cost more. However, there are certain fruits that you want to avoid such as grapes and some dried fruits. Fruits that are ideal for your gift basket include apples, oranges, pears, berries, and grapefruit.

Gym Membership

A membership to a nearby fitness center can help your friend or love one motivate themselves. This is especially important during the holidays and winter months when most people just want to spend time indoors. You can choose to purchase a gym membership or a gift card to a nearby gym that you know is in close proximity to your friend’s home.

These are just some of the best gift ideas for someone with diabetes. You can also give them a medical alert bracelet or fitness tracker. Other great gifts include a gift basket with tea and kitchen gadgets. If you’re on a tight budget, you can offer to help them shovel their walkway, take them out to dinner, or cook for them. Remember, it’s the thought that counts.