Diabetes Management
A key to healthy living
Diabetes management is not unlike the lifestyle that any person should follow. If you have recently learned that you have type I or are at risk for type II, there are things that you should be doing now. Research has shown that correct diabetic management can prevent the
complications
that could otherwise arise. First things first, if you are overweight, you need to lose those extra pounds. Doctors and dietitians have differing opinions about which diet is best. But, one thing is certain; it is much easier to stick to a prescribed diet when your whole family is involved. Make your kitchen friendlier. Get rid of the foods that you should not be eating and don’t buy them anymore. This is particularly applicable if you are trying a diabetes management approach that allows some fatty or sugary foods, but only in moderation. It is really much easier if they are not in the house. You can plan for a sweet treat away from home. Think about walking to an ice cream shop with the kids. You’ll get some exercise that way, too.
Exercise and Nutrition
Exercise
is an important part of diabetic management. The right exercise program for you can only be determined by your doctor, because only he or she knows your current level of physical fitness. But, there are certain activities that anyone can participate in. Walking is probably the easiest to do.There are specific nutrients and plant extracts that may be beneficial for diabetes management, according to researchers. They include: alpha-lipoic acid, inositol, luteolin, zinc, quercetin, rutin and selenium. Catechins, which are antioxidants found in green tea, may be beneficial as well. One study showed that drinking a catechin enriched beverage contributed to weight loss in patients who had been diagnosed with type II diabetes, but were not receiving insulin therapy. A good multi-nutritional supplement may be beneficial for weight loss and your mood.
Other management issues
Diabetic management should also include attempts to reduce stress. Stress affects your ability to control the disease. You may forget to eat and then overeat, both of which negatively affect your blood sugar levels. Diabetic management includes eating regular meals at the same time every day. This keeps insulin production and glucose levels balanced.Many diabetics suffer from
depression.
Getting depression under control is another important part of diabetes management. When we are depressed, we tend to eat comfort foods. That’s another reason to keep them out of the house. Medication may help, but there are health supplements that are just as beneficial. Remember that it is not just your
long term blood sugar levels
that are important, your cholesterol levels and blood pressure are important, too. When the three are out of control for an extended period of time, there is an increased risk of heart attack, stroke,
blindness,
amputation and
kidney failure.
With proper diabetic management, these things can be prevented.
If you smoke,
you should quit. Basically, a healthier lifestyle is the key to diabetes management.
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