As difficult as getting a diagnosis of diabetes is, the condition is manageable, if you have the proper education. In this article, there are suggestions and advice that will provide guidance for you to make informed choices about your care and enjoying a more healthy life.
Almonds are a great way to curb your appetite and they won’t bother your blood sugar levels. Unsalted almonds are not only very healthy, but they contain protein, fiber and other essential nutrients. Place a bowl of almonds next to your easy chair and munch on them while you are watching television.
Following a sensible diet without overindulging is important if you suffer from diabetes. You may not need to give up sweets completely. When you can effectively manage your blood glucose levels, you shouldn’t worry to much about sneaking in the occasional sweet treat. You can balance the consumption of desserts by not eating an equivalent amount of carbohydrates in your meal.
Many things at the grocery store have this item, so be sure to read all of the labels. “Glucose/fructose” is how this product is labeled in Canada.
If you are dealing with hypoglycemia, it is critical you have gum or some other sugar food on hand wherever you go. Hypoglycemia attacks can occur anywhere, and it is crucial that you are prepared for one. Skipping breakfast is a bad idea that makes attacks more likely, because your body will be especially desperate for sugar.
Glycemic Index
Research high glycemic index so that you can recognize them instantly. For example, most juices, breads, desserts, cereals, and types of pasta are high glycemic index foods. Processed foods can also have a very detrimental effect on your blood sugar. Fresh produce, fish, and lean meats should be your main focus.
Diabetics should monitor their eating habits carefully. Different foods will have different effects on your blood sugar levels, so make sure to carefully choose your food choices. Bigger meals will need higher injections of insulin, and small meals might require less. It is possible to actively manage glucose levels if you are careful about what you eat.
It is never your own fault that you have gestational diabetes. It is out of the control of the person it affects and is very, very common. Cancel negative thoughts and think positively about your child and yourself. This will go a long way toward lowering stress.
If you want to limit diabetes’ effects on your everyday life, then stop smoking. Chemicals present in cigarettes can raise the level of sugar in your blood significantly if you are diabetic. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor.
Glucose Tablets
For anyone suffering from hypoglycemia, it is best to speak with a doctor to see if you should be taking glucose tablets. Carry around some glucose tablets so that you can increase the level of sugar in your system, rather than relying on sugar foods that take a long time for your body to process.
Smoking can be dangerous and especially if you are diabetic. Smoking can have very bad effects on your health. Cigarettes will make your body more resistant to insulin and can increase the risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
Get some exercise regularly. Exercise improves the way the body handles glucose and insulin and helps keep sugar levels stable. Exercise is a big part of any healthy diabetic lifestyle.
Conditions of employment are not allowed to be affected by the disclosure of diabetes. Thus, it is not necessary to inform anyone about your medical issues up front.
If you are diabetic and are planning on taking a trip, always pack a bag with the proper insulation to carry your insulin. Insulin needs to be set at the right temperature, so an insulated bag will make sure that it doesn’t get too cold or hot.
Sleep Apnea
Diabetes sufferers may have various other health issues that could go unnoticed, like sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes pauses in breathing during sleep. If you notice that you are extra sleepy during the day, talk to your doctor about running some tests to see if you have sleep apnea.
Foot problems often plague diabetics. You need to take special care of the feet, because if not, amputations can result. These suggestions are the best way to keep healthy feet.
If you suffer from diabetes, make sure to maintain healthy teeth and gums because diabetes increases your gum disease risk. You will need to brush your teeth several times each day and floss every night.
If you skip meals, your liver tries to compensate by releasing extra glucose to give you energy when there is not enough food, causing your blood sugar to rise. To keep your blood sugar levels stable, eat regular meals and sensible carbohydrate-rich snacks.
Keep a complete set of supplies in a bag you always have with you. But keep extras handy also so you are never caught without the supplies needed to treat your blood sugar, whether it is too high or too low. The meter for checking blood glucose, syringes and insulin and also test strips should be kept ready in this bag.
Diabetes doesn’t have to be scary, just educate yourself. As you utilize the advice from this article, you’ll see that having knowledge about the disease is your most important tool for creating a healthier lifestyle.