MANAGING DIABETES ON A DAY-TO-DAY
One of most common problem with diabetes is that most people have it but are not aware of it. If left untreated, it can cause devastating complications that can ruin the lives of people who are suffering from it.
However, with proper care, monitoring and attention, people with diabetes can actually live normal lives. This lifestyle can be self-managed and they can take full responsibility for their own care. Hence, it is important to manage the disease by knowing a lot about it as much as possible.
CHANGE IN LIFESTYLE
As a diabetic, one needs to pay constant attention to ones eating habits, nutrition and sugar levels. Keeping in touch regularly with the doctor or medical supervisor is highly suggested to monitor any changes in ones condition. Additionally, here are some useful health tips that can help:
EATING HABITS
- Stick to a low-fat, healthy-carb diet with moderate servings of protein
- Incorporate wholegrain or whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, , beans, brown rice, oats, fruits and vegetables in your regular diet. These are slowly digested and absorbed thus, keep the sugar levels relatively stable and aids in digestion because of their fiber content.
- Minimize consumption of sweets, candies, cakes, sweet drinks, jams, or ingredients like sucrose, glucose or fructose. These are rapidly absorbed and digested and can cause a sudden gush in the bloodstream causing problems. Stay away from them as much as possible, or eat in very small quantities.
You can try this combination:
small portion of jam/preserve (simple carb) taken with wholegrain bread (complex carb)
The effect: the sugar in the simple carb will be absorbed at a slower rate.
- Drink alcohol moderately if it cannot be avoided altogether. Alcohol acts like a simple carbohydrate and can rapidly destabilize the sugar levels. Never drink on an empty stomach.
- Have the discipline to follow proper diet. Taking an active role in planning ones diet instead of delegating it to somebody else helps create discipline.
WHEN SHAVING OFF THOSE POUNDS…
- Following a regular exercise and eating routine lowers blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels; reduces risk for heart disease and stroke; relieves stress; strengthens heart, muscles, and bones; helps insulin work better; improves blood circulation; boosts the immune system; keeps joints flexible; lowers health premiums; and improves overall health.
- Have meals and snacks, and exercise at similar times each day. This helps to promote more stable blood-sugar levels.
3. Check blood sugar level and feet before and after work out. Wear the proper shoes and socks and make sure your feet are free from blisters or sores prior to and after exercise.
4. Warm up prior to exercising and cool down afterward.
5. Go slowly then gradually increase intensity and length of your workout accordingly for safety and health.
- Talk to your doctor about the right exercise for you.
Now that you’ve read these tips, you can start living life to the fullest once again!
