Diabetes and Health
HEALTH & NUTRITION
Diet and Nutrition
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult, and even small changes can make a big impact. For those with prediabetes or diabetes, healthy eating not only helps manage blood sugar but also fosters a better relationship with food, allowing your body to function optimally.
How to Make Healthy Eating Choices:
Regardless of your eating plan, informed food choices are key to managing diabetes and living well. Most healthy eating plans emphasize:
Non-starchy vegetables as the foundation of meals
Lean proteins and plant-based protein sources
Quality carbohydrates, such as starchy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy
Choosing water or zero-calorie beverages
Reducing processed foods
Incorporating healthy fats
Limiting added sugars
These basic principles help support overall health and effective diabetes management.
Physical Activities
Regular exercise is key to taking control of your life, especially when managing diabetes or prediabetes. While creating an exercise plan can feel daunting, it’s essential for improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood glucose levels.
Exercise not only helps regulate blood sugar but also enhances your overall well-being. Whether it’s taking daily walks, running, or training for a marathon, the most important step is getting started.
Even small changes can make a big difference. Losing just 10–15 pounds can significantly impact your health.
Remember, the power to change is in your hands—so start moving today!
Monitoring
Importance of Monitoring
Blood sugar levels can fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors, including food choices, medications, and physical activity. While some changes are normal, excessively high or low blood sugar can lead to serious issues.
Regular monitoring helps you understand what influences your blood sugar levels, identify patterns, and make necessary adjustments. By checking your levels frequently, you’re more likely to stay within your target range. This monitoring also provides valuable information for your healthcare team, aiding them in making informed decisions about your diabetes care plan. Your doctor will advise you on when and how often to check your blood sugar levels.
Most blood sugar meters, or glucometers, store your results for you and your healthcare team to review together.
Mental Health
Managing diabetes can be demanding, requiring you to juggle blood sugar tracking, insulin dosing, meal planning, and physical activity. This constant effort can sometimes lead to feelings of burnout, stress, and emotional exhaustion. It's important to acknowledge and address these emotions.
Take time to reflect on how you're feeling—are you stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious? Talking openly with friends, loved ones, or a mental health professional can provide valuable support and coping strategies. Remember, maintaining your mental well-being is just as crucial as managing your physical health.
By addressing the emotional challenges of diabetes, you can improve your overall quality of life and better cope with the demands of the condition.
