Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can cause serious health conditions if not managed properly. One of the most important steps you can take to manage your diabetes is to learn as much about the disease as possible. Read the information in this article, and use the tips and advice to help you manage this disease in your life.
Foods fall on different places according to the glycemic index, a number that details how each food will affect glucose levels in the blood based on its chemical makeup. Keep in mind that lower GI numbers are what a diabetic needs.
Almonds are a great way to curb your appetite and they won’t bother your blood sugar levels. You will get plenty of fibers and proteins from unsalted almonds. You can keep a full bowl right by your couch so they are an easy grab while you watch television.
Try to keep a tight schedule in order to simplify your life and allow your body to get used to normal cycles. For example, put your meter and insulin in the same place every night to make it easy to find in the morning. Let your testing become a routine and you won’t forget to do it regularly and to write in your log.
Switching to a diet that is high in fiber can lower your risk of developing diabetes. Increase the amount of whole grain foods that you consume, and at the same time, reduce your daily intake of processed foods and white bread. Evidence suggests that it is possible to reduce your risk for diabetes by eating a diet that contains whole grains.
Switching to an online pharmacy is a smart way to save money on the many medications needed by diabetics. Many of these also have the option of setting up a monthly delivery subscription, ensuring you never are left without these important supplies.
If you are a diabetic and you are having problems with your vision, be sure to talk with your doctor. Glaucoma, cataracts, and other eye conditions, such as retinopathy, can be caused by diabetes. Serious eye disorders that can lead to blindness are directly related to diabetes.
Watching what you eat is of critical importance when you have diabetes. Your blood sugar will be effected differently by various foods, so keep track of what you eat and how it will impact your blood sugar. Depending on the amount of exercise you get, you may need more insulin for large meals, and less for small meals. Take an active approach to dealing with your diabetes by managing your meals.
If you take fast-acting insulin, be sure to take it up to 15 minutes prior to your meal. This may change depending on your prescribing physician’s instructions. These insulin treatments are a good way to maintain your blood sugar levels, but only when taken at the right time and in the right dose.
To stay on top of your diabetes, remind yourself of what you gain by managing the condition. Give thought to what you enjoy doing in life, what keeps you from doing them, and what can help you to do more of them. This can help you keep yourself focused on the positives in your life and motivated in the management of your diabetes.
One flavorful spice that diabetics can use, that doesn’t contain sugar, sodium or calories, is cinnamon. Cinnamon helps you to highlight a food’s natural sweetness in place of glucose raising sugar. Some even believe that cinnamon will lower blood glucose levels, but the jury is still out on that one.
Individuals who battle hypoglycemia should consult a physician to inquire about the use of glucose tablets. Carry around some glucose tablets so that you can increase the level of sugar in your system, rather than relying on sugar foods that take a long time for your body to process.
Even when diabetes makes you feel ill, or steals your appetite, you must take care to nourish yourself regularly, and keep track of your glucose levels. Fluids are very important during times of low glucose levels.
Smoking is dangerous and can be very dangerous if you’re a diabetic. Partaking in this vice will open the door to seriously negative health consequences. Smoking can make a person resistant to insulin, and those who are not diabetic already may be at risk for type 2 diabetes.
In most cases, gestational diabetes only lasts for the term of the pregnancy, but it is still essential to keep watch on your blood sugar levels at regular intervals. People believe that after you give birth, your issues with blood sugar levels magically disappear, but sadly that is not true.
It is important to not rely solely on the urine ketone test for checking your blood sugar. Higher ketone levels in your urine only indicate that your ketones are higher than 200mg/dl. Readings should be recorded to find patterns and to give your physician an accurate report.
If you are diabetic and are planning on taking a trip, always pack a bag with the proper insulation to carry your insulin. Insulin should be protected from extreme temperatures. An insulated bag is your best bet for keeping it at the right temperature.
One of the goals in managing diabetes is to be able to live the lifestyle that you want. The more you do to keep yourself healthy, the more you can avoid diabetes’ dangerous effects.