Diabetes is a fairly complex health condition that impacts how the body processes insulin and regulates glucose. The chronic disorder is known to elevate glucose levels, which can cause the body to use and produce insulin ineffectively. Insulin is a hormone that’s entirely responsible for managing blood glucose levels.
There are also two types of diabetes. While type 1 diabetes is a kind of autoimmune condition that leads the body’s immune system to attack and then destroy beta cells that produce insulin, type 2 diabetes is majorly associated with insulin resistance. In this case, the body is unable to respond to insulin.
While you must work with your doctor to identify suitable diabetes medications, you can also manage this chronic condition in the following ways.
Find The Right Foods
As a diabetic, you need to create a tailored eating plan that’s considerate of unhealthy saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars. It’s best to choose foods with a low GI score to prevent spikes and dips in glucose levels.
You will find that some food products that should be suitable are not due to added ingredients. For example, while peanut butter is exceptionally healthy, some have added sugars and other ingredients that make it a lousy choice. Peanut butter is good for diabetics when the product is natural and void of added ingredients.
Sweeten Foods Yourself
Instead of reaching for sweetened foods and snacks, opt for sugar-free options as available. You can always add your own diabetes-safe sweeteners to prevent glucose level spikes that can be dangerous. Stevia, saccharin, monk fruit, and sucralose are all suitable sweetener solutions that won’t harm your health.
Get A Glucose Monitor
Even with all the right dietary changes, it’s still worthwhile to invest in a glucose monitor to check your blood sugar levels routinely at home. Monitoring blood sugar levels is the only way to identify foods that cause spikes and dips without having to head to the doctor. These devices are pretty affordable and exceptionally easy to use.
Control Portion Sizes
Even the best foods in the wrong portions can be a mistake for diabetics. Instead of consuming any portion sizes, control portions to smaller amounts to ensure your glucose levels are regulated. Because carbohydrates have a significant impact on glucose levels, it’s essential to shrink portion sizes dramatically to improve diabetes management.
Exercise Daily
Whether your diabetes was caused by obesity, genetic factors, or other, it’s crucial to get routine exercise. Exercising helps regulate blood sugar levels while reducing stress and improving quality of life. A quick jog around the neighborhood or a causal cycle through the park is more than enough to get started on a new healthy journey. You can also practice compound muscle exercises, stretching, and yoga.
Stay Hydrated
Diabetes can influence hydration levels as well. Those with diabetes typically experience increased thirst and urination. Unfortunately, the impacts of the condition can also cause an imbalance of electrolytes.
So, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Steer clear of fizzy sodas, teas, coffee, and other drinks that typically contain added sugar.