6 Lifestyle Adjustments to Manage Your Diabetes

Medication and blood glucose meters are crucial tools in managing diabetes but you should also be keen on your daily behaviors if living with the condition. The appropriate lifestyle adjustments may be sufficient to maintain your blood sugar levels in a healthy range without medication use. The following are lifestyle adjustments endocrinologists and other health experts recommend for Southaven diabetes management.

Eat healthy

This is crucial if you have diabetes since what you eat impacts your blood sugar. No foods are specifically off-limits; however, concentrate on eating only as much as your body requires. Eat a lot of fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. Also, choose low-fat dairy or lean meats, and limit sugary and fatty foods.

Furthermore, remember that carbohydrates turn into sugar so limit your carb consumption. Also, try to keep it consistent from one meal to another. This is especially critical if you use insulin or blood sugar-controlling medications.

Get regular checkups

You should visit your specialist at least twice a year. Diabetes increases your chances of developing heart disease, so learn your cholesterol, blood pressure, and A1c levels (average blood sugar over three months). Every year, have a complete eye exam. Also, consult a foot doctor to rule out issues such as foot ulcers and nerve damage.

Exercise

If you are not active already, it is time to get started. You don’t need to join a gym or engage in cross-training. Simply walk, ride a bike, or play active video games. Your aim should be 30 minutes of exercise that makes you sweat and breathe harder most days of the week.

Moreover, an active lifestyle can help you manage your diabetes by lowering your blood sugar levels. It minimizes your chances of having heart disease. Also, it might help you lose extra weight and reduce stress.

Quit smoking

Diabetes increases your risk of developing heart, eye, stroke, kidney, blood vessel disease, nerve damage, and foot difficulties. If you smoke, your chances of developing these issues are significantly greater. Also, smoking might make it more difficult to exercise. Consult your doctor about quitting methods.

Watch your alcohol consumption

It may be simpler to manage your blood sugar if you avoid drinking too much beer, wine, and liquor. So, if you decide to drink, don’t overdo it. According to the American Diabetes Association, women who consume alcohol should have no more than one drink every day and men no more than two. Alcohol can trigger your blood sugar to become too high or too low.

Additionally, check your blood sugar levels before drinking, and take precautions to avoid low blood sugar. If you use insulin or take medications for your diabetes, eat before you drink. Some drinks, such as wine coolers, may be higher in carbs, so consider this when you count carbs.

Manage stress

When you are stressed, your blood sugar levels increase. If you are anxious, you might not manage your diabetes properly. You may forget to exercise, eat healthy, or take your medications. Find ways to relieve stress, like deep breathing, yoga, or hobbies that relax you.

Diabetes is a common health concern that can alter your lifestyle and quality of life. Consult your healthcare provider before making lifestyle modifications or trying new supplements, particularly if you have blood sugar issues or are using medications. Call Desoto Family Care Clinic or book your consultation online to determine which diabetes therapies are ideal for you.