Living with diabetes can be challenging, but there are ways to make life easier. Here are some tips to help you manage your diabetes and live a healthier life:
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating healthy foods can help you control blood sugar levels and keep your weight in check. For example, choose foods that are low in sugar and fat and high in fiber. Besides, eating smaller meals more often during the day can regulate blood sugar levels. Avoid eating sugary snacks or drinks, and opt for healthy alternatives like fruits or nuts.
2. Get Regular Exercise
Exercise helps to control blood sugar levels and can help you lose weight. Ensure that you get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day. If you have not been active for some time, start slowly and gradually increase your activity level.
3. Get Regular Checkups
Diabetes can cause serious health complications, so getting regular checkups is essential. Visit your doctor at least four times a year or more often if you have complications from diabetes. Your doctor will check your blood sugar levels, order tests to look for complications, and discuss your treatment plan at each visit.
Also, use a diabetes app, an online tool to track your progress and help you make healthy choices. For example, according to health experts, patients should know their diabetes ABC to manage the disease well.
A is for A1C, which measures your average blood sugar level over the past three months. An A1C test can help you, and your doctor sees how well your diabetes treatment plan works.
B is for blood pressure. High blood pressure can damage your heart, kidneys, and other organs. Managing blood pressure is an essential part of managing diabetes.
C is for cholesterol and triglycerides. The fats in your blood can increase your risk of heart disease. For example, if you have diabetes, regulating your cholesterol and triglycerides is essential.
The diabetes app from Tandem Diabetes and other reliable sources could help you track the above and other progress indicators related to your condition.
4. Quit Smoking
Smoking increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, which is a significant concern for people with diabetes. It’s one of the most important modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease in diabetic people. Quitting smoking can be difficult, but your doctor can refer you to a smoking cessation program, and many online resources can assist in the process.
5. Practice Reputable Stress Management Skills
Stress can have profound effects on blood sugar levels, so it is vital for people with diabetes to find ways to manage stress effectively. Good stress management skills include relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation and speaking with a therapist or counselor about ways to manage stress. For example, Tai chi, Qigong, and Massage are suitable stress management methods. Remember to work with an expert who can help you find the best stress management technique.
6. Get Good Sleep
Sleep is critical for everyone, but it’s crucial for people with diabetes. A good night’s sleep can help control blood sugar levels and improve your body’s overall metabolism. Therefore, make sure to get enough sleep each night.
You can do many things to make life better for people with diabetes. Following the tips above can help improve their overall health and well-being.
