Diabetes Management: Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle

Dr.Monika Sharma, 2 mins read

Are you suffering from diabetes?
Do you constantly worry about your blood sugar levels?
Do you want to know some tips to manage the disease?
Then you are at the right place.

Diabetes is a chronic condition which affects how your body uses glucose which is the body’s main source of energy.
Unfortunately, diabetes has become a reality for most of us. As Indians we have been traditionally consuming a high carbohydrate low protein diet and hence we are more prone to Diabetes. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to this as well.

What are the various types of Diabetes?

• Pre Diabetes
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Gestational Diabetes

What can you do after being diagnosed with diabetes?

• Healthy diet: Incorporate whole foods, seasonal vegetables and fruits in your diet. The diet should be rich in fibre, as fibre is known to slow down sugar absorption. Another thing that one can do is to reduce portion sizes and increase the intake of proteins. Take foods with a lower glycemic index. Meal planning in advance will also be very beneficial for those suffering from diabetes.
• Physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle will worsen your condition, so make it a habit to walk regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of brisk walking or any other form of exercise.
• Weight management: Shed extra kilos, this will help in better metabolism and reduce sugar spikes. Stay consistent with your exercise routine to manage diabetes naturally.
• Sleep: 7-8 hours of sleep is vital for proper functioning of our body. Sleep hygiene will improve your quality of life.
• No smoking: Smoking is known to worsen pre-existing diabetes. Nicotine and other chemicals in smoke make it harder to control blood sugar levels. So give up on that urge to smoke. You can start by lowering your daily consumption.
• Manage Stress: Practices like yoga, deep breathing and meditation support better glucose control.
• Weight Management: Regularly monitor your weight as excess weight leads to insulin resistance.
• Health monitoring and self-care: Regular eye check ups, foot care, dental care, cholesterol, blood pressure monitoring is essential for a diabetic.

Conclusion

These lifestyle modifications and being vigilant about your health will result in better blood sugar control and overall health. The success of these initiatives will also depend on how soon you start. Nurturing a healthy lifestyle will make your life full, healthy and active without any complications.