Diabetes is a serious medical condition that can lead to a host of health complications. The way your body processes insulin can affect everything from your cardiovascular health to your body’s ability to heal from wounds. Fortunately, a few simple lifestyle changes can help you sidestep some of the worst issues associated with diabetes. Today, Lifestyle Health Hub shares tips and tricks on how to help you live your healthiest best when you have diabetes.
Follow a healthy diet
While it might seem like every article on good health starts with this tip, there is a reason for that. Eating a balanced and healthy diet can help you manage your blood sugar, reduce the risk of heart disease, and help you maintain a healthy weight. All of these are essential in keeping your diabetes in check.
Exercise
Another tried-and-true tip for better health for everyone includes exercising when you can. Even if you’re stuck in a busy workday, you can sneak in a bit of physical fitness by skipping the elevator and taking the stairs or using your lunch break to move your feet.
Prioritise foot health
Speaking of feet, diabetes can take a toll from your heels to your toes. When you have diabetes, you’re at risk of diabetic neuropathy, a condition characterized by poor circulation. Unfortunately, this can lead to everything from loss of sensation to the need for a full-blown amputation. Make sure to visit your podiatrist often so that you always know how healthy your feet are or are not and can take corrective action before diabetes causes a disaster.
Visit your dentist
Just as important as diet, exercise, and visits to your podiatrist are keeping on top of your oral health. Mouth Dental explains that you’re at a higher risk of gingivitis and periodontitis when you have diabetes. Your dentist can help you overcome cavities, dry mouth, and other issues that could lead to poor oral health. Also, make a point to prioritize brushing your teeth at least twice each day and flossing before bed each night.
Drink enough water
Because people with diabetes have trouble processing sugar in their blood, staying hydrated is crucial. When you drink enough water, you have more blood, which means you have proportionately lower blood glucose levels when you’re hydrated versus when you are dehydrated. Plus, drinking enough water helps your kidneys work more efficiently so that they can better filter the blood running through your veins, according to the Type 2 Diabetes website. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water every day is a good start, but you may need more or less depending on your height, weight, and level of physical activity. You also probably need to drink more water during the summer since you will sweat more.
Go to sleep on time every night
Sleep is important in both keeping diabetes at bay and helping to prevent it in the first place. Access Community Health Network elaborates on the importance of sleep, citing that it improves brain function, helps you keep your emotions in check, and also helps you manage your weight. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep every night. If you have trouble winding down, make sure your bedroom is completely dark and that you set your thermometer to between 60° and 67°.
Paying attention to your health when you have diabetes is the best way to keep your condition from controlling your every move. From finding ways to keep moving to visiting your podiatrist and staying hydrated, today’s tips can help you live your best life and be a healthier version of you, even when you have diabetes.
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