Controlling your diabetes becomes easier with time as many others are beginning to realize. They should not let lack of information prevent them from managing symptoms more effectively. You can incorporate the information here to enhance your life in spite of diabetes.
Foods have a “glycemic index” number which says how much they will affect blood sugar based on what is in them. Remember, the lower the GI number, the better for a diabetic!
Add some almonds to your diet to keep your cravings low and not have an effect on your blood sugar level. You will get plenty of fibers and proteins from unsalted almonds. Keep a container or bowl of almonds handy by the television or computer so you have a handy snack whenever you need it.
Testing Routine
To help make your diabetes control efforts less of a hassle, get organized and keep a constant testing routine. For instance, keep your meter, journal, and insulin in one specific place so it will be easy to access in the mornings. Make your testing routine so you always remember to write your levels down in your log.
If you change to a diet rich in fiber, you can decrease your risk of developing diabetes. Consuming processed and overly refined foods with a high glycemic index increases your risk of developing diabetes; instead, eat foods that are made with whole grains. Research has shown that those who eat more whole grains are at lower risk of getting diabetes.
If you have hypoglycemia, you need to carry a sugary food such as gum with you. Hypoglycemic attacks can happen at any time, and it is vital that you be prepared in the case of one. This is a potentially severe problem if you skip breakfast, so always eat a healthy breakfast and regular meals to reduce the risks.
If you’re not sure how you can afford your diabetes medications, try looking at online pharmacies. You can even set up monthly deliveries, so you never run out of the diabetes supplies you need.
Blood Sugar
You should have the ability to identify which foods are high in the glycemic index, which quickly elevates your blood sugar. This includes fruit juices and foods like bread, cereal and pasta. Foods that have been overly processed can wreak havoc on blood sugar levels. Stick to fresh and natural foods instead when grocery shopping for your diabetic menu.
If you are a diabetic and you are having problems with your vision, be sure to talk with your doctor. There are many eye-related conditions associated with diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Do not take these problems lightly. Diabetes has been known to cause people to go blind when they do not take care of themselves and their diabetes.
If you’re a diabetic who enjoys snacking, it may be difficult to resist vending machine goodies. It’s crucial that you avoid these unhealthy snacks, and instead fill up on fruit and vegetables.
If you smoke and have diabetes, try quitting. In addition to increasing your risk of lung cancer, smoking can cause a spike in your blood sugar level if you have diabetes. If you are finding it difficult to quit smoking, your doctor may be able to offer some help.
Frequently remind yourself why it is so important that you keep your diabetes under control. Stay conscious of the hobbies and activities you enjoy that rely on your good health. How can diabetes affect those hobbies if not controlled? Let your love of these things keep you motivated to manage your diabetes.
Cinnamon is an excellent spice for diabetes sufferers to use in their cooking; it does not put any additional calories, sodium or sugar in the food. Cinnamon can make foods sweeter without adding sugar. It has not been proven one way or the other if cinnamon can reduce glucose levels, but either way, it is a great spice to include in your diet.
Now that you know how to manage your condition, you are better prepared to make the right choices and changes in your life. Keep in mind that these tips will only be relevant if you use as many of them as possible, and therefore you ought to start today to see prompt results.