If you are diabetic, then you know how important it is to keep your blood sugar under control. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body handles sugar. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. But there is good news – diabetes can be controlled with diet and exercise.
In this blog post, we will discuss five ways on how to control sugar and live a healthier life! Hopefully, these tips will help you manage your diabetes and improve your quality of life!
Let’s get started.
An Overview of Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when there is too much sugar in the blood. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in childhood, while type 2 diabetes is more common in adults. However, both types of diabetes can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness.
There are different ways how to control sugar levels in the blood, and these vary depending on the type of diabetes. So, it is better to speak with your doctor first to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Five Ways to Control Diabetes
Mentioned below are the ways how to control sugar:
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
One of the most important things you can do to control diabetes is to eat a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein and limiting sugar, saturated fat, and processed foods. A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important in managing diabetes.
2. Get Regular Exercise
Exercise is another crucial factor in controlling diabetes. It helps to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It also helps promote weight loss, which can further help manage the condition. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week.
3. Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels
It is vital to keep track of your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. This can help you to keep them under control and avoid any complications. Check your levels before meals and snacks and at bedtime. You may need to adjust your diet or insulin doses if they are high.
4. Take Your Medication as Prescribed
If you have diabetes, taking your medication as prescribed is essential. This includes insulin if you take it. Taking your medication as directed can help to control your blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
Chew More Gum
Chewing gum after meals can help control blood sugar levels. When you chew gum, saliva is produced, which helps to clear away any food debris that may be stuck in your teeth. Chewing gum also stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, which helps to lower blood sugar levels.
The Bottom Line
There are multiple ways on how to control sugar in your diet if you have diabetes. While some people may only need to make small changes, others may need to overhaul their diets completely. The best way to find out what works for you is to work with a registered dietitian or certified diabetes educator who can help create a personalized meal plan.