Diet: Grabbing a healthy balance of carbohydrates and fat is tricky. Carbohydrates (milks, sugars, starches and fruit) don’t need to be cut completely from your diet, but eaten in moderation, spread throughout the day. Some dieticians suggest small batches of meals throughout the day, rather than large, filling ones. This way, your metabolism can process your food – and especially your sugars – at an easier pace, rather than suffer uncanny bulks. Similar to carbohydrates, eat protein in small portions, with low fat properties (chicken, grilled fish or lean beef). You can find small traces of fat in vegetable spreads (rather than butter), oils and nuts.
Exercise: If you’re not snacking, then you’re not slacking either. Physical activity is an important aspect in diabetes. From the bottom, work your way upwards, starting with 20 minute walks, three times a week. Once that becomes too easy, challenge yourself with longer times, quicker movements (cycling, jogging, and brisk walks) or new locations. Talk with your doctor about when it is appropriate to exercise and how it can run alongside your diet, eating times and blood sugar. Some doctors recommend measuring your sugar levels before exercising.
Medication: A very straightforward solution and the typical route that many suffering from diabetes. Keep a note of what you take and when you have taken it. Let people know that you have diabetes so you might be treated should things go awry.
Stress: Managing stress is a good way of also managing your blood sugar. Take time out for yourself and relax – or, exercise! Exercising is an excellent stress-reliever.
Alcohol: A tricky one; normally not recommended, but if you are unsure as to whether or not you are allowed to drink alcohol, consult your doctor.
Diabetes isn’t all doom and gloom, but insert these habits into your daily life – you might find yourself exquisitely surprised!