You may control your diabetes by concentrating on six major lifestyle adjustments while closely collaborating with your physician.
Consume a balanced diet.
This is really important if you have diabetes because your blood sugar is influenced by what you consume. Foods are not strictly forbidden. Make an effort to simply eat what your body requires. Consume an abundance of fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Pick lean meats and nonfat dairy products. Eat less of the foods heavy in fat and sugar. Keep in mind that carbohydrates can be converted into sugar, so limit your consumption. Aim to maintain a similar amount from one meal to the next. If you need insulin or other medications to control your blood sugar, this is even more crucial.
Work out.
It’s time to get active if you aren’t already. You are not required to cross-train and join a gym. Simply go for a stroll, a bike ride, or an active video game. Most days of the week, you should aim for 30 minutes of activity that causes you to perspire and breathe a little more forcefully. Living an active lifestyle lowers blood sugar, which aids with diabetes control. It also lessens the likelihood of developing heart disease. It can also reduce tension and help you shed additional pounds.
Schedule examinations.
Visit your physician no less than twice a year. Heart disease risk increases if you have diabetes. Thus, become familiar with your blood pressure, cholesterol, and A1c (average blood sugar over a three-month period). Annually get a comprehensive eye exam. See a podiatrist to rule out conditions like nerve damage and foot ulcers.
Control your tension.
Stress causes an increase in blood sugar levels. Furthermore, poor diabetes management may result from anxiety. You might neglect to take your medication, eat healthfully, or exercise. Look for techniques to decompress, such as yoga, deep breathing, or relaxing pastimes.
Give up smoking.
Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney illness, blood vessel disease, nerve damage, and foot issues, among other health issues. Your risk of developing these issues is increased if you smoke. Exercise may also be more difficult for smokers. Consult your physician about quitting methods.
Be mindful of your alcohol intake.
If you consume moderate amounts of wine, beer, and spirits, controlling your blood sugar can be simpler. Therefore, don’t overindulge if you decide to drink. According to the American Diabetes Association, men and women who consume alcohol should limit their daily intake to two drinks each. Alcohol can cause either an excessive rise or fall in blood sugar. Prior to drinking, check your blood sugar and take precautions to prevent low blood sugar. If you take medication or insulin for your diabetes, you should eat before you drink. When tracking your carbs, keep in mind that certain beverages, such as wine coolers, may have more carbohydrates than others.