Getting diagnosed with diabetes can seem frightening, but making simple lifestyle changes can help you better manage your diabetes. Here are some tips that may help.
Eat the Foods You Like
Keep in mind that you don’t have to give up on all your favorite foods just because you have diabetes. But, you need to be aware of how your choices will affect your blood sugar. A dietician or diabetes educator can help you count your carbs, choose the right portion sizes, and read food labels. These skills will help you manage your diabetes and satiate your taste buds at the same time.
Take Control of What You Eat
Want to know an easy way you can ensure you eat a more balanced meal? Start by dividing your plate into 3 separate zones. Fill one side with vegetables like broccoli, spinach, green beans, or carrots. Next, split the other empty side into two separate halves.
Add starchy foods like brown rice, potatoes, whole-grain pasta, or quinoa to one half and meat or any other protein to the other half. On top of that, you can have half a cup of fruit and a glass of low-fat milk.
Keep a Record
Every day, start jotting down things like your blood sugar levels, what exercise you did, what you ate, and what meds you took. This will help you and your healthcare provider track whether there has been an improvement in your condition and if your treatment has been working. It’s also a good idea to write down your feelings and goals. It will help remind you of what you need to ask your doctor.
Prepare for Sick Days
Common illnesses like flu, colds, and diarrhea could raise your blood sugar. Also, remember that your diabetes will make it harder for you to fight infections. So ensure you are prepared. Store snacks that can be digested easily but still provide you enough nutrition.
Remember to check your blood sugar more frequently when you’re sick. Also, know when to check for ketones and when you should be calling your doctor. And make sure you get a flu vaccine every year.
