Diabetic neuropathy is a chronic condition that sometimes accompanies diabetes mellitus. Brought on by long term high blood sugar, this is usually a complication affecting the feet and legs. Over time the nerves become damaged and fail to send sensational messages to the brain. This loss of sensation can cause injuries on the feet to go unnoticed, leading to ulcers.
If you need to sweeten your tea or coffee, but you have Diabetes, try using more natural sweeteners like honey or a sweetener and sugar substitute. These sweetener and sugar substitute can be found at many grocery stores today and is a plant extract, which is very sweet. It can even be found in a powdered form which mimics real sugar.
For people with diabetes, it is important to check your glucose level after heavy exercise. Exercise can keep consuming glucose for up to 24 hours later, so it’s best to check your glucose level every 45 minutes or so after your workout to see if your glucose level is dropping or remaining stable.
Diabetics MUST visit their doctor regularly to keep tabs on their blood sugar, weight, and medications. Your physician might know of a new treatment that could be useful to you, or see something in your blood work that indicates there is a problem. Having your doctor weigh you will also give you an accurate measurement of how well you’re keeping your weight under control.
You can get a free blood glucose meter from your pharmacy just by asking. They usually have coupons or rebates so that you can get the latest model at no cost, the caveat is that you’ll be buying their brand of blood test strips for the rest of your life.
Your insurance may cover a trip to the nutritionist once you’re diagnosed with diabetes, so take advantage of it! Bring a list of your favorite foods with you and ask if there is any way for you to make them healthy AND tasty, meaning you can have a treat without any of the guilt.
It is possible to lower your blood sugar with exercise, so give it a try and see what it does for you. Make sure to test yourself immediately after you exercise to make sure your blood sugar has gone down to a level that is tolerable, otherwise you’ll have to take your insulin.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or at high risk of acquiring the disease, it is vitally important that you lose weight. About 80 percent of all diabetics are overweight carrying excess body fat has been proven to contribute to the development of the disease. Losing weight is often times all one needs to do to completely control all diabetes symptoms.
In order to be healthy in the midst of having diabetes, it is very important to eat the right kind of food. It is good to switch to food that is high in fiber such as whole grains. These types of foods contain refined carbohydrates that help decrease the risks associated with diabetes.
Get tested for sleep apnea if you suffer from diabetes. If you have this condition, treatment will keep you more alert, healthier and happier.
Do not eat snacks out of a bag. By eating snacks directly from its container, you are more likely to overeat and create a spike in your blood sugar levels. Get a plate and put a small portion on the plate. Eat it slowly, savor the flavor, and don’t get more after you have finished.
To keep your blood sugar levels from spiking, research high glycemic index foods. If you’re not knowledgeable about what ingredients you should avoid, you may consume something harmful without realizing it. If you need to eat something quickly and don’t have time to look it up, stick to non-processed foods.
To reduce your risk of heart disease, carefully monitor your triglyceride cholesterol and blood pressure levels. One of the most common complications of diabetes is heart disease, and the best way to avoid that risk is to set goals for all of these levels and then, stick to them. Ask your doctor where your levels should be.
Almost all insurance companies will now pay for blood glucose monitoring equipment for diabetics to have in their homes. It is important to keep machines in good working order and clean. This is vital to assure you obtain accurate results. Your manufacturer’s directions have directions on how to clean and maintain your machine.
To keep from developing diabetes related circulation problems, regularly tap your feet! Foot exercises will keep your blood moving even when you’re stuck in a chair. Simply alternate lifting your heels or toes in the air while the other half of your foot remains on the floor. After time, this will become a habit, and keeping your circulation strong will be like second nature to you.
If you have diabetes, wear an I.D. bracelet at all times. Although it may trivial, wearing an I.D. bracelet can save your life if you were to pass out as paramedics will know you suffer from diabetes and can help treat you effectively. If you do not feel like wearing an I.D. bracelet, make sure to keep something on you that says you are a diabetic.
To assist your body in digesting your good properly, be sure to chew your food slowly. When you chew your food, it’s covered in enzymes that help your body to process what you eat. Doing this will make sure your body is able to take equal advantage of all the nutrients you consume, keeping your glucose levels stable.
If you are diabetic and notice numbness, tingling, pain or burning in your legs or feet, report these symptoms to your doctor immediately. Diabetic neuropathy can be avoided by keeping your blood sugar levels under control. It’s important for diabetics to treat their feet well. Toenails should be clipped regularly, skin should be moisturized and shoes should be comfortable and fit properly.