Six habits to help keep blood sugar steady
If you have type 2 diabetes, you know how important it is to keep your blood sugar levels in your target range. When your blood sugar is steady, you not only feel better, you’re also less likely to experience long-term complications from diabetes, such as eye, kidney, and nerve disease, or a stroke, says Mary Vouyiouklis Kellis, MD, an endocrinologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
Dr. Kellis recommends talking to your doctor to make sure you understand your blood sugar target range and treatment plan. These six lifestyle habits can help you meet those goals.
- Eating well. There’s really no such thing as a diabetes diet, says Dr. Kellis. You need to be aware of the ways different foods impact your blood sugar, but you can still enjoy your favorite meals. The trick is to manage portions and make sure you’re eating plenty of fiber, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, and lean sources of protein. Working with a registered dietitian who has experience helping people with diabetes is a good idea.
- Being active. Exercise in all forms—including walks around the block, gardening, and household chores—can help you meet your blood sugar goals. Moving more also helps you build muscle, reduce body fat, keep stress in check, and lower your risk of heart disease. There’s no right or wrong workout, just focus on activities you enjoy.
- Following doctor’s orders. Not everyone with type 2 diabetes needs to take insulin or other diabetes medications, but if your doctor has prescribed a medication to help you meet your blood sugar goals, take it as directed. Bring up any concerns about side effects with the doctor. Also find out what you should do if you come down with a cold or the flu.
- Monitoring blood sugar. Blood sugar “self-checks” show you how much glucose (sugar) is in your blood when you eat, exercise, and take your medications. It’s a great way to know how different foods affect your blood sugar levels, as well as what happens if you’re stressed or tired. Keep a log to track your blood sugar level and share this info with your doctor at each visit. Also, ask your doctor when you should get an A1C test, which tells you what your average blood glucose level has been over a longer period of time.
- Reducing risks of other conditions. Having diabetes puts you at a greater risk of other health conditions. Make time every day to check your feet for small cracks or wounds, and treat any issues right away. Be sure to have your eyes checked at least once a year.
- Staying connected. Managing diabetes can be stressful. Surround yourself with supportive friends who can help you stay positive—or let off steam when you need to. Also, talk to your doctor and other members of your health-care team to find out if there’s a support group near you (or online) that they’d recommend.
