One of the hardest diseases that you will ever have to deal with is diabetes. Not only must you make drastic changes when it comes to the food you eat, it also requires you to administer extensive maintenance and monitoring. Having diabetes can be challenging, however there are a lot of things you will be able to do to deal with your condition. Below are a few key tips that are sure to help you deal with your diabetes more easily.
Check all the foods you eat for the “glycemic index“, which is a number that shows you exactly how your blood sugar levels will be affected. For diabetics, the GI numbers should be as low as possible.
Almonds are a great snack to eat between meals that will help to maintain normal levels of blood sugar. Unsalted almonds are filled with protein, fiber and many other nutrients that are very healthy. When you are craving a snack in the evening, keep a bowl in the living room so you can munch on them while you watch television.
If you do the same thing every time, your life will be more organized and easier. One idea is to establish a designated area for your glucose meter and testing supplies. Stick to a routine when testing your blood sugar, and you are less likely to miss a step or forget to log your levels.
If you are diabetic, you need to learn to indulge in a healthy manner. You will not necessarily have to give up everything sweet. Give yourself permission to enjoy an occasional dessert if your diabetes is properly managed and under control. Allow room for the after-dinner treat by cutting out carbohydrates from your entree.
Consuming a diet high in fiber can reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Eating more whole grain foods will reduce your intake of high glycemic foods like white bread and processed foods which will increase your your risk. There have been quite a few studies that prove the point that those who choose whole grain will have a lesser risk of getting diabetes as opposed to those who do not.
Take the stress out of diabetes management by developing more consistent habits. Keep your insulin close to you and store it in the same spot every night. Stick to a routine when testing your blood sugar, and you are less likely to miss a step or forget to log your levels.
Glycemic Index
Find out which foods have a rather high glycemic index so you can avoid them. For instance, bread, cereal, pasta or juices have a very high glycemic index. Processed foods are also terrible for your blood sugar. Fresh produce, high grain breads and cereals and healthy sources of protein are the best choices for diabetics.
Sometimes a quick snack, like a chocolate bar from a snack machine, or other goodies around the house, may be hard to avoid, diabetic or not. But, it is quite important that unhealthy snacks are passed over for fruit or vegetables.
Sleeping well is especially important for diabetics and if you experience problems sleeping, it can be helpful to be tested for sleep apnea. If you do have sleep apnea, seeking treatment in a timely manner is important if you want to remain healthy.
You have to carefully choose the food you eat if you suffer from diabetes. Different foods will all have different effects on your blood sugar, so take care when choosing your meals and snacks. Adapt your insulin injections to what you eat. If you watch your meals, you can actively manage your glucose levels.
If diabetes is an issue for you, eat smaller meals more frequently, rather than having three larger meals every day. By eating regularly during the day, you will be able to stabilize your blood sugar. Eating more often also helps you avoid the desire to binge, because the frequent meals will keep you satisfied.
This increases the odds that your child will have diabetes at birth or develop it as he gets older. Do not impart this terrible disease onto your child, do what you can to take care of this problem now.
Diabetics must exercise caution when having a pedicure. Since diabetics are at an increased risk for foot-related complications, it is especially important to safeguard against possible fungal infections or cuts.
One seasoning that’s great for diabetics is cinnamon. It won’t add calories, sodium, or sugar to your dishes, but it will add flavor. The natural sweetness inherent in certain foods is accentuated by cinnamon without the need for adding sugar that can increase levels of blood glucose. There is some debate about whether cinnamon can lower glucose levels, but it is not harmful and can enhance many dishes.
Favorite Foods
Adapt the recipes for the foods you like instead of thinking you can no longer eat them at all. If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, it can be extremely hard to deal with following a strict diet. It’s a common myth that to control your diabetes, you must give up your favorite foods. Some diabetics will ignore the restrictions and continue to eat their favorite foods. Look for alternatives to your favorite dishes if they are unhealthy. Many dishes can turn into diabetes-friendly meals by using healthier ingredients as alternatives when cooking.
Ketchup, pop, and other sweets contain this item. That is why it is necessary to read the food labels, and return it to the shelf when you know that it contains corn syrup. Also, be aware that outside of the United States corn syrup may be listed as something else, such as glucose or fructose if you are in Canada.
It requires you to take excellent care of yourself, and to pay close attention to your health and diet. This article is here to guide you through managing your diabetes. Stop fighting diabetes, and start living with it, by treating diabetes like a regular, daily aspect of your life.