Diabetes Does Not Have to Be a Detrimental Diagnosis
By Virginia Laird
Each year the number of those diagnosed with diabetes increases. Research suggests that although there are some who cannot prevent this disease from taking over their lives, there are those who can prevent it by taking some precautions. Health and wellness experts suggest that while being diagnosed with diabetes is scary and can be detrimental, it does not have to be. These same professionals suggest there are several things you can do to manage your diabetes without falling victim to the many side effects of the disease, including:
- Healthy snacks are best
- Cut out sugar
- Plan for exercise time
Healthy Snacks are Best
For those who may be struggling to control blood sugar levels, healthy snacks are best. While it can be very tempting to reach for a cookie, piece of toast, or fresh baked bread, these are not the best choices for those who struggle with diabetes. Better choices include celery with peanut butter, and hummus with fresh vegetables, among other healthy choices that offer few calories and few carbs. Making sure to choose snacks wisely can have powerful effects on your overall health.
Cut Out Sugar
If you are struggling with diabetes, cutting sugar from your diet can prove to be beneficial in controlling this disease. Health and wellness experts suggest that while giving up sugar can promote lower blood sugar levels, it alone cannot completely fix the problem. Research suggests that eliminating sugar from the diet can be a great first step in a new healthier direction. Some who are successful in kicking sugar out of their diet have found a decreased need for insulin and medication. Although it is best to leave these decisions up to your healthcare provider.
Plan for Exercise Time
When managing diabetes it is imperative to make time to exercise. Health and wellness experts advise that at least 20 minutes of exercise daily can be enough to balance out of control blood sugar levels. Fitness gurus suggest that exercising can be as simple as walking through your neighborhood, jogging, or even riding a bike. For some, taking up yoga or going for a swim may sound more appealing. No matter what you plan to do for your exercise time, make sure that you set aside a few minutes each day to burn a few calories.
Don’t let your diabetes diagnosis be detrimental any longer. Now is the time to begin taking control of your diabetes by using these tips. Before you know it, you may be able to see the positive effects of making these healthy lifestyle changes. Good luck!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in St. Charles, Mo.