You can manage your condition by following these eight steps. Take notes and do more research to adapt your lifestyle to your diabetes.
Carry glucose test strips or a monitor anywhere you go, along with insulin. Use these supplies to keep track of your glucose levels throughout your day, especially after exercising or eating. Do some research about how low glucose levels affect your body and how insulin functions. It is important that you understand your condition and know what to do in certain situations. Try different products and find one that is affordable and efficient.
Exercising regularly is important; it will help you maintain a healthy weight. Any kind of exercise is good for you. Look for things you enjoy and design a complete fitness program. Start with easy exercises and work out more as you start getting in shape. Your goal should be to stay active and build muscles, since more muscle mass means more space to store glucose.
Eat three balanced meals throughout your day. If you skip a meal, your glucose level will be hard to maintain. Every meal should contain elements from the four food groups and a reasonable amount of fat and sugar. Carry healthy snacks with you in case you need to raise your glucose level; choose a fruit or nuts instead of a candy bar.
Read the labels of the foods you buy; watch out for high amounts of carbohydrates, sugar and fat. Avoid alternatives such as high fructose corn syrup. Stay away from soda and fruit drinks; these products contain a dangerous amount of sugar. Eat a small amount of carbohydrates to get some energy, but you should replace carbs with foods rich in whole grains and fibers instead.
Stay hydrated throughout the day. Drinking water will help you stay away from other unhealthy drinks and eliminate toxins from your body. Buy mineral bottled water instead of drinking tap water.
Go to your doctor at least once a month. Talk about the efforts you have made to manage your condition and ask your questions. If you notice anything unusual, you should go to your doctor right away. Schedule regular appointments with your dentist too, since diabetes increases your risk for gum disease. Going to a foot care specialist is also a good idea; you might want to get special shoes if your feet need more protection and comfort.
Having diabetes does not mean you cannot have a normal life. At first, you might feel stressed and unsure of what to do, but as you learn more about diabetes you will find out that you can manage this condition and avoid complications. Adopt a positive attitude and make new friends who have diabetes too if you need support.
Always be prepared and establish a routine. Once you get into the habit of checking your glucose levels or inspecting your feet for cuts and sores, living with diabetes will seem much easier.
Follow these eight tips and do more research about diabetes. You will be able to remain healthy if you adopt a lifestyle that is suitable for your condition.