According to CDC, 37.3 million people have diabetes; among them, 28.7 million people were diagnosed, while 8.5 million people are undiagnosed. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that causes high blood sugar. There are three main types of diabetes, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, balance issues, and extreme hunger or thirst.
The good thing? Diabetes is preventable and manageable.
3 Tips for people living with diabetes
Here are three must-know tips for people living with diabetes;
Regular inspection of your feet
Diabetic Neurotherapy refers to the different types of nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes. The nerve damage can occur in any part of your body, but it’s most common in your feet and legs.
Diabetic neuropathy can cause tingling, numbness, and balance issues. To prevent this, you need to inspect your feet regularly for any changes. Additionally, you need to wear proper shoe wear for cushioning and support. Avoid wearing flip-flops, flat-soled shoes, or high heels because they prevent an even distribution of pressure from the foot.
To avoid rubbing and friction while walking, choose shoes with a broad and deep toe box. For the most comfort, choose one with a soft insole. Note that small or poorly fitting shoes can increase surface contact with bony prominences resulting in injury.
Physical therapy and exercise for balance
If you have diabetes, you may experience balance issues due to neuropathy or other complications. It is harder for your brain to adapt to different surfaces if your feet are not receiving the proper sensation. This can lead to a higher risk of falls.
In addition, people with diabetes have slower healing times due to poor circulation, high blood sugar levels, Neurotherapy, and immune system deficiency. Diabetes also causes the body to create hormones and enzymes that weaken your immune system. Additionally, it lowers vitamin D levels, which are essential for calcium absorption and bone density. Chronic inflammation brought on by high blood sugar levels directly affects the strength and quality of bones. This can further complicate balance issues and even increase the chances of getting infections in the affected area.
That’s why physical therapy is vital for people with diabetes. A physical therapist can help you improve your balance and coordination by teaching exercises that challenge your proprioception and motor control. They can also teach you how to prevent falls and what to do if you do fall. Good examples of exercises that improve balance include;
- Tai Chi
- Yoga
- Aerobic Training
- Walking
So much so, exercise is vital for people with diabetes. It helps to control blood sugar levels, improve circulation, and promote weight loss. It can also help to reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease and stroke. It is also a good idea to warm up before exercising and cool down afterward. This will help to prevent injuries.
Diet modification
Grabbing a pack of chips while playing games in Playcroco casino may look like an innocent act, but for people with diabetes, it is a bad idea. What you eat plays a big role in managing diabetes. A healthy diet can help you control your blood sugar levels, improve your cholesterol levels, and lose weight. Note that blood sugar levels are the main thing that is affected by diabetes. As a result, it affects affect mood, energy, and overall endurance.
The normal blood sugar levels are 70-130 mg/dL before meals and less than 200 mg/dL two hours after eating. If you have diabetes, your blood sugar levels may be higher than these levels.
That’s why you must eat a healthy diet that helps you control your blood sugars. Carbohydrates have the biggest impact on blood sugar levels, so choosing foods that will not cause a big spike in blood sugar is key. These include;
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean protein
- Beans
- Nuts
- Low-fat dairy
You should also limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, alcohol, as well as processed foods. Also, eat meals on a regular schedule and avoid skipping meals, as this can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low. Do not forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and limiting your intake of sugary beverages.
Best home testing kits for diabetes
It is imperative to keep track of your blood sugar levels. This will help you determine if your diet and physical activity are working to control your diabetes. The best way to do this is to use a home testing kit. These kits are available without a prescription and can be bought at most pharmacies.
Some of the best home testing kits are:
- LetsGetChecked
- Cerascreen
- EverlyWell
- Verisana
- Pixel by Labcorp
- Home Access
Your doctor can also help you choose a home testing kit that is best for you.
Wrapping Up
There you have it! These are three must-know tips for living with diabetes. Regular inspection of your feet, physical therapy for balance, and diet modification are key to managing your diabetes. Be sure to use a home testing kit to keep track of your blood sugar levels.
Keep in mind that you can lead a quality life despite having diabetes. Just be sure to stick to your treatment plan and talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
