It can seem a full time chore just to manage diabetes, leaving you no spare time to research the best ways to live comfortably with your condition. Take a few minutes to read this article and learn a few simple tips you will find useful if you need help with managing your daily life.
All food has a ‘glycemic index’ this is how much your blood sugar will be affected when you eat them. Keep in mind that you want a lower GI number, this is better for diabetics.
Almonds are a great snack to eat between meals that will help to maintain normal levels of blood sugar. If you choose the unsalted variety, you will get fiber and protein in a yummy package. Place a bowl of almonds next to your easy chair and munch on them while you are watching television.
If you are a diabetic, you need to learn how to indulge on food in a healthy way. You may not need to give up sweets completely. If your blood sugar levels are under control, eating desserts occasionally is not a problem. It may be wise to anticipate an after-meal treat by eliminating a certain amount of carbs from your main course.
Switch to a diet high in fiber in order to lower your risk of developing diabetes. Choose whole wheat and whole grain foods over their processed counterparts, like white bread, which have a dangerously high glycemic index. Research has shown that those who eat more whole grains are at lower risk of getting diabetes.
If you suffer from diabetes and you have vision problems, you must discuss this with your doctor. Glaucoma, cataracts and retinopathy can appear because of diabetes. It is very important that you have ongoing medical attention for these eye disorders because they can lead to blindness.
If you are suffering diabetes, its a good idea to enjoy several small meals throughout the day, instead of three substantial ones. When you are eating frequently through the day, you avoid large blood sugar fluctuations. Besides, eating more regularly should help you reduce your snacking.
Don’t blame yourself for being inflicted with gestational diabetes. It happens, and often, it is totally out of your control. Avoid stress and adopt a positive attitude towards your pregnancy.
One myth of diabetes is you need to avoid all sugar. Do not get rid of sugar entirely, simply stay away from foods too rich in sugar such as sweets. You may still celebrate with an occasional indulgence in a sweet treat. Plan carefully and balance your splurge with the other carbohydrates consumed that day, preferably by bypassing them.
Insulated Bag
Take a small insulated bag with your insulin and supplies, if you plan on traveling. This is important because your insulin must maintain a certain temperature. With an insulated bag, you ensure your insulin does not heat up or cool down too much.
It is common for those people with diabetes to have serious undiagnosed health conditions, such as sleep apnea. Sleep apnea means that you stop breathing for brief periods of time while sleeping. If you are constantly fatigued during the day, consult a doctor and ask for a sleep apnea evaluation.
Good carbohydrates are a great choice for a diabetic’s diet. Diets focused on extremely low levels of carbohydrates can harm diabetics as they eliminate sources for needed fiber and nutrients. Making sure that you consume the right amount of carbohydrates will help you maintain your energy throughout the day.
Diabetics are especially susceptible to problems with their feet. Inspect your feet regularly and take good care of them to prevent serious conditions and perhaps amputation. Following this advice can help ensure you keep your feet healthy even if you have diabetes.
Diabetics also have an increased risk of developing gingivitis so regular dental visits are important. Because of this, you need to brush your teeth a few times per day and floss a minimum of once per day.
Try to control the stress in your life. Diabetics may experience elevated blood glucose levels, especially when they feel upset or stressed. Learn about, and start practicing, different relaxation methods to lower stress, such as meditation and yoga. Breathing exercises are a wonderful way to calm yourself down, and there a variety of techniques you can try. These can be done anywhere, making them convenient, as well as easy.
Add a little vinegar to your meals. Swallowing half an ounce of vinegar, prior to your main meal, helps reduce spikes in blood sugar after eating. Your sugar will still rise, but will do so more slowly if you start off every meal with a tablespoon or two of vinegar. Vinegar slows down starch digestion and keeps food in your stomach for a longer time.
Keep an eye out for recipe substitutions and other ways to convert your favorite foods into healthier versions. Just because you have diabetes, you don’t have to go without all of the foods you like. Research different ways to prepare these foods without the unhealthy ingredients. There is no shortage of websites and cookbooks that offer great tasting recipes for people who are dealing with arthritis.
Use the information offered in the article and you will be able to manage your diabetes symptoms a little easier, and still have a fun life. Use these tips to continue living a healthy, happy and fulfilling life despite your diabetes.
