Best Ways To Manage Your Diabetes
If you have diabetes, it is important you do everything you can to manage your condition. You will be at risk for a number of health issues if your diabetes is not under control. Keep reading to learn more.
The best way to prevent complications is to keep your sugar level under control. Prevent your blood sugar from spiking by staying away from unhealthy foods and taking action immediately if you need an insulin injection. You should check your sugar level before and after meals or anytime you feel hungry or dizzy. Always carry your supplies with you and do not hesitate to excuse yourself to go check your sugar level regardless of what you are doing.
If you are overweight, you should get in shape. Your blood sugar will be much easier to control once you have reached a healthy weight. Avoid fattening foods and calculate the amount of calories needed in a day. The average number is 2,000 calories but daily requirements vary a lot from one person to another depending on their age, weights, sex or how active they are. Being more active will help you lose weight too.
Rethink the way you eat. You should have your meals at regular hours and make sure you get foods from the five food groups. Do not eat anything that contains too much sugar, preservatives or fat and do not hesitate to try new healthy foods. If your blood sugar gets too low in between meals and spikes after a meal, it is best to have five or six smaller meals throughout your day as long as you always eat at the same time.
Eating foods rich in whole grain and fibers will help you keep your diabetes under control. Whole grain foods can be found in the cereal group; eat some whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, wild rice, corn meal, popcorn, oatmeal and bulgur. If you need to introduce more fibers in your diet, eat plenty of fruits such as apples or berries and vegetables such as peas, artichokes and spinach. Bran cereal and beans are a good source of fibers too.
Being more active will help you eliminate sugar and burn some calories. You should avoid spending most of your time sitting in front of your computer or TV. Instead, go for walks, do some yard work and consider getting a pet so you will spend more time outside. You could also follow a fitness program if it is healthy for you to exercise regularly. If you can exercise, you should start very slowly with some simple exercises designed to help you lose weight in your midsection. Once you are in better shape, you can start working on your cardio and toning your muscles. Always check your sugar level before exercising and make sure you drink plenty of water.
Apply these tips to keep your diabetes under control and prevent complications. Keep track of how your blood sugar spikes and go to your doctor’s regularly to monitor the progression of your diabetes.
