Many individuals are under the misconception that a normal life isn’t possible once a diagnosis of diabetes has been made. The following article offers tips for managing the symptoms of diabetes, while still being able to function as normally as possible through your lifetime. You have to make a conscious decision to follow these tips and help ensure your future health.
The glycemic index is a number that reflects how much effect different foods have on your blood sugar level. For diabetics, the GI numbers should be as low as possible.
Get a few almonds to satisfy your cravings without upsetting your blood sugar levels. Almonds, and a lot of other nuts for that matter, are very high in protein and fiber, and they contain zero sugars. Almonds are a high protein snack that can improve diabetes and prevent heart disease.
Sleep Apnea
If you are suffering from diabetes you should test yourself for sleep apnea. If sleep apnea is diagnosed and treated quickly, it won’t have a chance to negatively affect your health.
If you are diabetic, be very careful when getting a pedicure. People who suffer from diabetes are more likely to get foot infections, so it is important to be extra careful not to pierce or cut your skin.
You’ll be surprised at the number of items containing corn syrup, so check labels, and be prepared to put back common items such as ketchup, sodas, sauces and sweets. “Glucose/fructose” is how this product is labeled in Canada.
Research high glycemic index so that you can recognize them instantly. High glycemic foods are those such as cereal, pasta, juice, bread and desserts. Eating processed food will do your blood sugar no favors. Eat foods such as fresh veggies and fruit, fish, and lean meats.
One seasoning that’s great for diabetics is cinnamon. It won’t add calories, sodium, or sugar to your dishes, but it will add flavor. Cinnamon will bring out the sweetness in your food without raising the sugar levels. Some studies have shown promising results when it comes to cinnamon, concluding that it can lower glucose levels. Results on this are mixed, but cinnamon is a fantastic spice regardless of its glucose benefits.
Alter the foods that you love eating as opposed to eliminating them. One of the most difficult aspects of a diagnosis of diabetes is the restrictive diet. Lots of people think they have to eliminate the majority of the foods they love. Many people will eat their favorite foods whether they should or not. The smart thing to do is to adjust your favored dishes with substitutions. In a lot of cases, substituting healthy ingredients for diabetes-unfriendly ones can make a great dish healthier, without compromising its flavor.
Smoking is bad for everyone, though it is a lot worse for a diabetic. If you choose to smoke, you will face a lot of health hazards. Smoking causes your body to become resistant to insulin, and if you haven’t yet contracted diabetes, cigarettes grow your chances of doing so.
Get regular exercise. This will help you process insulin and sugar while keeping glucose levels stable. Exercising is important if you have diabetes.
Don’t solely rely on urine ketone testing for measuring blood sugar. While this type of testing can show you if your urine has high ketone levels, that only lets you know your blood glucose levels are over 200 milligrams for each deciliter. Organizations like the ADA recommend that those with diabetes use more reliable testing methods, like strips or finger pokes.
Egg Whites
Eating egg whites for breakfast is a wonderful idea for anyone suffering from diabetes. Egg whites contain the protein required by your body to get started in the morning, but they contain little fat and few calories. You can eat your egg whites scrambled, or even use them to make a delicious omelet.
The tips above should have given you a good idea of the little things you can do to manage your Diabetes and have a fulfilled life. There is no reason for you to live less of a life than you want to live. You are the only person who can control the type of life you have whether you have diabetes or not.