Diabetes, if not properly controlled, can result in a number of other serious health issues. Unfortunately, if a diabetic doesn't control his disease, the damage is irreversible and there's no quick way to go back in time. Controlling diabetes means, first of all, learning all you can about the disease. Being a diabetic does not mean that life can no longer be enjoyed; it just means that you need to play a bigger role in maintaining your own health.
Controlling diabetes demands a change in lifestyle habits. Primarily, the diabetic must practice eating a healthy diet suitable for a diabetic, exercise regularly, and take their medication as prescribed by their health-care practitioner. One of the biggest changes someone with diabetes must face concerns the food they eat. You must now plan each meal carefully, looking at serving sizes, type of food, and cooking methods. The diabetic should eat a well-balanced diet consisting of foods from the main food groups:
- Starch / carbohydrates
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Meat / fish
- Dairy - yogurt and milk
However, the serving size will be dependent on the amount of calories you need each day based on your age, health, and activity level. Limiting the quantity of fats and sweets is also necessary. Set meal times so that you eat at the same time each day. The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood at any given time is dependent on what and how much you eat. Keeping your blood glucose at a safe level means paying strict attention to what you consume. It is also important to set the time you take your medication as well. Setting and sticking to these times allows you to develop a routine so that you are less likely to miss a meal or forget to take your medication.
Exercise
Keeping fit and exercising has been proven to play a role in controlling blood sugar levels and the overall health of the diabetic. In addition, if you are overweight, a dangerous state for the diabetic, exercise will help you shed pounds, thus reducing the risks posed by the diseases.
Other lifestyle changes
Other lifestyle changes necessary to maintain good health include controlling your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In addition, reducing your stress will lead to a healthier you. If you smoke, it is advisable that you stop smoking as it increases the risk of complications from the disease. The diabetic should also have their eyes checked at least annually because of other health issues arising from the condition. Foot care is also important as poor blood circulation frequently leads to amputations. However, if you pay attention to changes and minor cuts, you can save yourself lots of heartache.
The best way to ensure that follow all of the advice above is to learn everything you can about diabetes, its causes, symptoms, and treatment. With knowledge, you will be better able to plan your meals and develop an exercise plan in collaboration with a personal trainer (whether at a gym or at home). Read and ask questions, plus join support groups so that your knowledge base about diabetes and treatment options will remain current. In closing, there is an important step to follow that many diabetics dislike, that of monitoring their blood sugar levels. However, with practice, monitoring sugar levels becomes easier or you can find someone to do it for you.
To learn more go to Diabetes Center and at Information On Diabetes
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