If you have been diagnosed with diabetes then it is time to take a critical look at what factors made you vulnerable to the disease. The genetic factor obviously leaves you more prone to developing diabetes, but the risk is definitely increased by unhealthy lifestyle choices, being overweight, and having low activity levels.
A diagnosis of diabetes should not be taken lightly, learning to live with a chronic illness means mentally accepting the fact that you have to implement some lifestyle changes. Whether it is Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, the chances of harm to your body will decrease if you adopt a few healthy lifestyle habits. New anti-diabetic medicines are being created to combat the disease, but no matter how advanced the drugs – your lifestyle still plays a dominant role.
Living with Diabetes
Diabetes has been extensively studied and is a disease one can live with for as long as one takes medication on time and in the right manner and follows a healthy lifestyle. All the medicine and lifestyle changes have one goal, to keep your blood glucose level under control. These habits will help you lead a healthy life and help you manage your condition.
Dietary Recommendations for Diabetics
As a known diabetic, you must learn how different kinds of foods affect your blood sugar levels. The amount of food you consume and the combinations of food also matter. Curb your carbohydrate consumption and try to eat foods that have a low-glycemic index. Make every meal a well-balanced one. The following is a list of low-glycemic foods that you should include in your diet:
· Eggs- source of high-quality protein
· Chicken or Turkey- Lean cuts, skinless and preferably grilled
· Vegetables-carrots, broccoli, green beans
· Low processed grains
· Increase good fats- olive oil and avocados
· Nuts-almonds, walnuts, pecans
Preventing Health Complications Brought on by Diabetes
Diabetes exposes you to life-threatening complications. However, you can avoid these by making a few changes such as:
· Low alcohol consumption
· Quit smoking
· Take medications strictly as directed
· Always wear a medical alert bracelet
· Monitor your glucose level, blood pressure, and weight regularly
Remain Active and Energetic
Make exercise a part of your daily routine. The increase in physical activity will keep you blood sugar in check and reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Your nervous system will also stay healthy. Try to aim for about 30 minutes of aerobics about 5-6 times in a week.
It is important that you keep an eye on your blood sugar level if you want to stay healthy. Moreover, telemedicine can be of help as you can get in touch with an expert without having to bear any sort of trouble.
