How To Protect Yourself From Diabetes?

Diabetes refers to the condition where your blood sugar levels are significantly high. Unchecked, high blood sugar will lead to further medical complications, such as nerve damage, kidney failure, cardiovascular disorders, and others. Therefore, it is imperative that you adopt the necessary steps to protect yourself from the chronic condition.

Here are a few ways to keep your blood sugar levels under control-

• Eat a balanced diet – It is important that you know which kind of food is affecting your blood sugar levels, and how. While planning your meal, determine the quantity of carbohydrates your food contains. Determine how much of carbohydrate intake is needed for your health. Ensure that you get a well-balanced mix of starch, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates every day. Avoid eating processed, packaged food, and stop quenching your thirst with sugary beverages. Instead, include healthy proteins and leafy vegetables in your diet. Cut a lean portion of fish or poultry meat, or prepare a bowl of salad.

• Work out regularly – Any sort of physical activity helps you to stay fit and healthy. Regular exercise – walking, running, cycling, and swimming – burns the glucose in your blood for energy, and thereby, lowers your blood sugar levels. You can also adopt a few changes in your daily routine on your own if you have a busy schedule. For instance, take the stairs at your workplace instead of using the elevator. Staying physically active automatically helps you lose weight and reduces your chances of developing complications related to chronic diabetes.

• Cope with stress – High levels of stress can increase your blood sugar level drastically. Learn to manage stress and cope with anxiety by practising relaxation techniques. Talk to a family member or friend, or seek medical help. Identify the stressors and look for ways to relieve yourself from stress. Good social support will always help you to deal with diabetes.

The more you learn about diabetes, the better you will be able to protect yourself from its ill effects. In most cases, a healthy diet and exercise alone will not help you. You will need to take the right dose of medications at the right time. If you think your diabetes is taking a toll on your health, or if you are unable to cope with the condition, consult your healthcare provider immediately.