I am using WebMD for the ideas, but not
the rhetoric and the pushing of carbohydrates and high carb low fat
that the articles promote. Again, like so many other sources, they do
not encourage using your meter with test strips to tell you how
different foods affect your body. This seems to be how they
encourage people to ignore diabetes and overeat. Yet they write
about decreasing obesity, but don't really support it when it comes
to diabetes.
I have written about other tips for
managing diabetes in this blog, and WebMD had some items that need to
be discussed.
#1. Eat the Foods You Like Within
Reason. Having diabetes doesn't mean you can't eat your favorite
foods. However, you need to know how your food choices will affect
your blood glucose. By using your meter, this will help you learn
skills and reinforce diabetes skills. Learn how to count carbs, read
food labels, and size up portions that will let you keep your
diabetes in check while still enjoying your favorite meals. Learn
which of your favorite foods spike your blood glucose more that 40
mg/dl. Then limit the quantity you consume or eliminate that food.
#2. Define Your Plate and the Plate
Size. Use a rule of three to build a healthy, satisfying meal.
This rule may help you lose weight and manage your diabetes by
increasing your intake of non-starchy foods. Divide your plate in
half. Fill one-half with non-starchy vegetables like spinach or
broccoli. Next, divide the empty side into two halves. Use one for
starchy foods like bread or pasta. In the last section, add meat or
another protein. You can also add an 8-ounce glass of low-fat milk
and a ½-cup of fruit. This may not be the best and for some will
not help them lose weight. This is only a suggestion and each person
needs to find what works for them. Low fat milk does not work for me
as I like whole milk, but not in large glasses.
#3. Write It Down and I Mean
Everything. Develop the habit of writing down your critical
information. Record your daily blood sugar levels and track how
food, activity, and medicines affect your blood sugar and A1c test
results. A written record can show you and your doctor whether your
diabetes treatment is working over the long term. Writing down your
goals and feelings in a journal may also help you stay on track and
better communicate with your health care providers. I admit I may
over do this, but I like records that help remind me of the past and
especially the mistakes I make. This reminds me not to make the
mistake again.
#4. Have a Sick-Day Plan in Place.
This is something missing for many people with diabetes. This
should be one of the first things you do. Common illnesses like
colds, flu, and diarrhea can make your blood sugar rise. Having
diabetes, in turn may make it harder to fight off infections. Have a
plan in case you get sick. Store snacks that are easy on the stomach
but can still give you enough fluids and carbs, if necessary. Check
your blood sugar more often and know when to check for ketones and
when to call your doctor. Get a flu shot every year. A flu shot may
not prevent the flu, but you should have a milder case and recover
quicker.
#5. Manage Your Medicines and Where
They Are Stored. You may take pills or injections to manage your
diabetes. Try to keep, at a minimum, 3 days' worth of your diabetes
medicines and supplies on hand in case of an emergency, as well as a
list of all your medicines. I would suggest 7 to 10 days of your
medications. Your drugs may interact with other medicines, even ones
that can be bought without a prescription. Make sure to tell your
doctor before you take any new medicine. And always take your list
to your regular doctor and dental appointments. Do not store
medicines in the kitchen or bathroom as moisture or heat is often bad
for some medications and testing supplies.
I will continue with 6 more tips in the
next blog.
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