While researchers continue to work on a cure for diabetes, following these tips can help you achieve wellness regardless of your condition. There are many natural steps you can take to help manage your diabetes. This article discusses some of the natural herbs and supplements you should consider adding to your diet in addition to your current plan.
Eating fresh, non-processed foods is an easy way for a diabetic to keep his or her weight in check and blood sugar stable. By shopping only the outside aisles of the grocery store you will find you’re not exposed to the processed sugary or carbohydrate-laden treats, that can lead to temptation.
If you have a family history of diabetes, prevention is very important. A great way to prevent diabetes is to increase your intake of fiber. Foods that are high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains and nuts. Foods high in fiber increase your blood sugar control ability, which in turn reduces your chances of getting diabetes. Filling your plate up with foods high in fiber is an important way to prevent diabetes.
Try to avoid alcohol when you are diabetic. Even small amounts of alcohol, especially beer, can dangerously raise your blood sugar. Many doctors are in agreement that having a glass of wine once in awhile is okay for diabetics, just do not have more than one glass and do not drink it everyday.
Do not rely on chocolate for a quick fix if your blood glucose levels drop. While most diabetics feel that this is a harmless remedy, it may actually have the opposite effect. The body absorbs fatty foods far more slowly, so you will notice a faster increase in glucose if you opt for a sweet, but fat-free, food.
Always have some sugar available, just in case your sugar level runs low. This could be in the form of glucose tablets, orange juice or candy. Instruct your family and friends about where your sugar is in case you ever have a hypoglycemic episode and need it right away. This way you’ll be able to bring yourself out of hypoglycemia without going to the hospital.
Gestational diabetes can lead to Type II Diabetes later in life, so make sure the changes you implement during pregnancy continue after your baby is born. Having a healthy diet while breastfeeding is important, so keep eating cleanly throughout that time and afterward as well. Exercise will not only help you lose weight and tighten your skin back up, but it will also keep your blood sugar levels constantly normal.
Live a fun life. Don’t let diabetes get you down. You may have to watch your blood glucose levels, but you can still lead a full, enjoyable life. Have hobbies, to out with friends and even eat at a restaurant. Diabetes is a condition you have, but it isn’t you.
Don’t eat the “white” foods if you have Diabetes. This includes white flour (pasta, bread, etc.), white rice, and white potatoes. These all contain carbohydrates but don’t provide enough fiber or protein to help break them down in your body so you’ll avoid a massive blood sugar spike after eating them.
You can reduce your risk of diabetes by losing weight. The more overweight someone is, the more likely they are to develop type 2 diabetes. If you are someone who is at risk, make sure to change to a healthier diet and start exercising more so that you can prevent this disease.
Cut down on simple carbohydrates. These foods, such as pasta and bread, cause your blood sugar levels to spike which may cause hyperglycemia and a need for more insulin; that may result in a hypoglycemic episode. Stick to complex carbohydrates such as whole grains in order to keep your blood sugar stable.
Smoking has been attributed to the onset of diabetes. Smoking also raises your blood pressure and affects your whole cardiovascular system. It is definitely not a good idea to be smoking if you are diagnosed with diabetes. Smoking also causes lung cancer and affects many other parts of the body that are also affected by the symptoms of diabetes.
When you have diabetes, you probably have a team of doctors helping you out. You need to make sure that all of your doctors are on the same page, and are communicating with each other in a manner that puts your best interests first. Be assertive when it comes to your health care.
To assure you track your glucose levels properly, keep a glucose monitoring device in your home. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of this equipment by request. This equipment will allow you to get in-depth information about your glucose levels. Using this data appropriately that can significantly improve your overall health. To make sure your results are complete accurate, keep your device clean and well maintained.
To treat diabetes more effectively, remember to add stress relief to your routine. For some people, being stressed out affects blood sugar levels immediately — most people notice increased glucose, but some people have lower glucose when stressed. Being stressed for a long period of time can also change blood glucose levels more permanently. To keep from making your diabetes worse, take steps to control your stress levels.
If you have diabetes, then you should consider trying the guar gum supplement. Research has shown that guar gum can help lower your post meal blood sugar if you take the supplement in between your meals. It could also help reduce your cholesterol because it is really high in fiber.
As a diabetic, you may have trouble with your feet. Be sure to take good care of them by examining them and cleaning them daily with soap and warm water. Wear cotton socks in white so that you can be sure they are clean. Never walk barefoot, and never wear badly fitted shoes. Be sure to see a podiatrist regularly to have your toenails trimmed.
While these herbs and supplements will not cure your diabetes, they can definitely help. If you are unsure about trying these, talk about it with other people with diabetes and consult your doctor as well. Adding supplements and herbs can keep you healthy in other ways as well and help you lead a more healthier life.