Are your diabetes symptoms getting out of hand? If you’re looking for some practical tips on how to control your diabetes, read on!
It isn’t about your diabetes — it’s about your life. Ask yourself:
- What do you love to do?
- What things does diabetes prevent you from doing?
- Are there any solutions?
- Can making an action plan help you?
Heart Diseases
Heart diseases and strokes are the big killers for those with diabetes. Here are a few ways to lower your chances:
- Quit tobacco if you use it.
- Always keep your blood pressure at or below 129/79.
- Think about taking a statin drug.
- Speak to your doctor about ACE-inhibitors.
- Ask your doctor whether daily aspirin is right for you.
Stress
Stress can largely get in the way of taking care of yourself and properly managing your diabetes. Here’s what you can do about it.
- Try and find out what’s causing stress in your life.
- Learn some ways to reduce or cope with your stressors.
- Remember to schedule something fun for yourself regularly.
Exercise
Exercise works for everybody, giving more energy, reducing stress, helping with relaxation, and making it easier to fall asleep.
- Work towards exercising at least 30 minutes every day.
- Make workouts fun, not a chore.
- Try using a pedometer.
Make Healthier Food Choices
Instead of thinking about categorizing food as either good or bad, think about which foods help support good health.
- Eat a variety of foods to ensure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.
- Check with your physicians if you need to limit the intake of any foods
Use Your Blood Sugar Monitor
Your blood sugar monitor is extremely useful. Try and test your blood sugar to get the information you can use, like:
- When you first wake up.
- Before or after your meals.
- Before, during, and after a workout.
- Whenever you start to feel odd.
Get Regular Checkups
Try keeping regular appointments with your doctor and getting tests and screenings on time. This helps you be an active partner with your health care team. Here’s what more you can do:
- Know what questions you need to ask.
- Let your doctor know before each visit what specific things you want to talk about.
Ensure You’re Not Depressed
It’s hard for people to know when they’re depressed. Look for any common signs of depression, and seek help if you need to.