Steps to Control Diabetes So it Doesn’t Control You

Millions of people have either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Although it’s a serious medical condition, it doesn’t have to control your life. Instead, you can keep your diabetes under control by practicing certain steps. These measures can keep you healthier overall and feel happier as well.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Consuming a healthy diet is important for anyone, but if you have diabetes, it’s even more essential. You have to keep your blood glucose level in a safe area, which means you have to make wise choices about what you eat. Although it’s often recommended to work with a dietician to make healthy choices, you don’t necessarily have to go that far. As long as you ensure that you eat only healthy carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy and legumes, fiber, heart-healthy fish, and good fats like nuts, olive oil, and avocado, you are in good shape.

You should also know which foods to avoid. Cholesterol should stay low at no more than 200 milligrams per day, as should sodium. You should also cut out trans and saturated fats. Of course, limit your intake of unhealthy sugars to keep your diabetes in check.

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Be Active

Keeping physically active and incorporating a daily exercise routine is important for anyone’s health. When you have diabetes, it can help manage your weight and insulin levels and keep them under control. You don’t even have to do anything overly strenuous as long as you get in your daily movement for at least an hour per day. Something as simple as low-impact aerobics, light weightlifting, and even walking are great for managing your diabetes and helping you to lose weight or maintain your current weight.

Take Your Medication

Take all of the medications your doctor has prescribed to manage your diabetes and any other medical conditions. This includes anything over the counter and vitamin or herbal supplements as well. Make sure you take all your medications at the same time every day so that it becomes second-nature. You may want to set a reminder for yourself in case you’re the forgetful type.

Use Insulin Pumps

An insulin pump is a great option for controlling your diabetes. It’s an excellent, pain-free alternative to injections that can be painful. Doses of your insulin can immediately be delivered through a small, flexible catheter inserted into the skin. The pump releases doses based on your needs as a way to properly manage your blood glucose levels. It can work alongside a glucose monitor that continuously checks your glucose levels.

Monitor Your Stats

You can take your blood pressure at home with a blood pressure cuff or have it checked by your doctor. Your cholesterol levels should be checked by your doctor regularly as well. You can weigh yourself at home daily or at least weekly to ensure that you are at a healthy weight for your age, gender, and body type.

These steps will help you get control over your diabetes once and for all. You’ll feel better and have more energy.