Finding out that you have diabetes may seem like a scary revelation, but living with it is more than easy, trust us.
It’s true that this is a major health threat and one which is becoming increasingly prevalent throughout the world, according to this article, but there are ways to manage this condition and even reverse it completely.
Diabetes type 2 can seem like a full-circle of exercising, taking your meds, as well as testing your blood sugar over & over again. However, once you get your everyday routine under control, this won’t come off as a challenge. Keep on reading and simply understand how to live healthy with diabetes!
Contents
Top 8 key steps to take & understand
1. Test your blood sugar & log it
Monitoring your sugar levels is a part of your everyday routine. By writing it down in a notebook you will easily understand your food options for the day. This logbook will make your everyday habits simple, and your doctor visitations will be a lot more planned out and easier to track.
2. Take your medication
Every strict diet whether you have diabetes type 1 or diabetes type 2 should be followed with the right diabetes treatment. Your doctor will probably prescribe medication that will keep your blood sugar levels low. Your doctor will look into your history and will also look into any previous medication that you have been on. Thanks to their assistance you will end up with the best result.
3. Live a healthy lifestyle
Take care of your body by staying active. Exercise can help you lower your blood sugar levels. Usually, the best go-to for most patients are 30 minute long walks or runs five times a week. You will also relieve yourself from stress and enjoy deep sleep each night.
4. Eat right
Sometimes, you are what you eat. It is best to plan your meals ahead and to also count your carbs using the glycemic index. There are loads of diabetes food options, as well as diabetes recipes out there that will allow you to enjoy your foods and everyday meals. Find the one that suits you & do the needed grocery shopping the night before.
5. Protect your skin
Although this might seem like unusual advice at first, diabetes can make an impact on your skin, especially if you have a thin & sensitive skin type. Check for any fungal infections since these are quite common. Prevention of any kind will keep your body safe & healthy.
6. Sleep tight
Irregular and poor sleep schedules can make an impact on your glucose metabolism. Aim for a healthy sleeping pattern each night, and wake up at the same time every morning. Go for a peaceful, quiet, as well as therapeutic surrounding, and squeeze some extra room for a good book before you hit the bed.
7. Inspect your feet
Foot problems will become visible if you have diabetes, especially around your calluses and fingernails. Are there any blisters or redness, dry patches, or nerve damage? Yeast infection is also quite common, so a five-minute daily inspection can be crucial in your case.
8. Look after your dental health
Brush your teeth and do not forget to floss. Oral health and diabetes go hand-in-hand, and you should know that you’re at risk of gum disease or gingivitis. Visit your dentist every six months as well, since it is better to be safe than sorry.
Do you know what diabetes you have?
Know your diabetes type and your ABCs. Here are your options:
A
The A1C is a blood test that will measure your blood sugar levels for the past three months. This measuring is good if you need it tracked for a longer time period.
B
If a blood pressure of your blood against your blood vessels. Blood pressure that is too high can make your heart pump fast, which will result in a heart attack in some people. Your goal in this case should be anything below 140/90.
C
When it comes to cholesterol you should know that there are two kinds: LDL and HDL. LDL clogs the blood vessels, while HDL can remove and prevent this from happening.
In any of these cases, you should talk with your doctor and understand the key facts when it comes to determining your therapy. How old are you, does diabetes run in your family, and what past medications did you take? Once you answer all of these questions they will help with your therapy.
Actions that you can take right away
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Be prepared
It is common to feel overwhelmed at times if you’re living with diabetes, and especially if you’ve just found out that you have diabetes. For some, feeling anger or sadness is also quite normal at first. Be prepared for any mood changes, and stay optimistic at all times. Find a good distraction and occupy your thoughts with some fun magazines and positive material.
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Cope the right way
Do not stress about it! Learn how to meditate, walk, breathe, as well as exercise since any activity can help with your mental health, as well as anxiety. Cope with it the right way, do not go for a poor sleeping pattern. Exercise and physical activity will help you with your overall state, as well as with your body image.
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Eat well
A meal plan that is high on fat is a good go-to. Go for a lot of protein and fiber, as well as vegetables & fruit! Slow and steady wins the race in this case, so practice with new delicious meals and interesting foods on a daily. Also, focus on getting milk, soda, as well as any type of juice out of your system. Drink a lot of water, and go for a sugar-free coffee.
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Get educated
Get educated and learn as much as possible. You should check out a diabetes forum and stay updated. For instance, DiabetesIQ.com is a leading online resource for people who wish to know a bit more about diabetes. They have helpful articles, recipes for delicious foods, as well as a convenient platform for anyone who wishes to share their thoughts and chat with doctors or patients for better support.