Dietary Enigmas
asking questions about our diet
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Diabetes - Self Awareness
So in our third part on Diabetes awareness i want to focus on being aware of what your body is telling you - or self awareness.
Being aware of the risks and indicators is half the battle. Get this right and the rest is relatively straight forward. Get it wrong and the consequences are dire for both you and your family and your long term future.
Regular testing
Regular self-testing of your blood sugar tells you how well your combination of diet, exercise, and medication are working. Tests are usually done before meals and at bedtime. More frequent testing may be needed when you are sick or under stress.
A health care provider or diabetes educator will help set up an appropriate testing schedule for you. You will also be taught how to respond to different ranges of glucose values obtained when you self-test.
The results of the test can be used to adjust meals, activity, or medications to keep blood sugar levels in an appropriate range. Testing provides valuable information for the health care provider and identifies high and levels before serious problems develop.
Accurate record keeping of test results will help you and your health care provide plan how to best control your diabetes.
DIET AND WEIGHT CONTROL
Meal planning includes choosing healthy foods, eating the right amount of food, and eating meals at the right time. You should work closely with your health care provider to learn how much fat, protein, and carbohydrates you need in your diet. Your specific meal plans need to be tailored to your food habits and preferences.
Managing your weight and eating a well-balanced diet are important. Some people with type 2 diabetes can stop medications after intentional weight loss, although the diabetes is still present. A registered dietitian can be helpful in determining your specific, individual dietary needs. Talk with someone who has real experience call me on Skype see below.
REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Regular exercise is important for everyone, but especially if you have diabetes. Regular exercise helps control the amount of glucose in the blood. It also helps burn excess calories and fat so you can manage your weight.
Exercise improves overall health by improving blood flow and
blood pressure . It decreases insulin resistance even without weight loss. Exercise also increases the body’s energy level, lowers tension, and improves your ability to handle stress.The following should be considered when starting an exercise routine:
- Check with your health care provider before starting an exercise program.
- Choose an enjoyable physical activity that is appropriate for the current fitness level.
- Exercise every day, and at the same time of day, if possible.
- Monitor blood glucose levels at home before and after exercise.
- Carry food that contains a fast-acting carbohydrate in case blood glucose levels get too low during or after exercise.
- Wear a diabetes identification bracelet and carry change or a cell phone for a phone call in case of emergency.
- Drink extra fluids that do not contain sugar before, during, and after exercise.
- Changes in exercise intensity or duration may require modification of your diet or medication to keep blood glucose levels in an appropriate range.
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- Check with your health care provider before starting an exercise program.
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