Practical Ways to Manage Diabetes
Diabetes is on the rise, yet it can be controlled with healthy lifestyle changes. This doesn’t have to mean a life of deprivation, or eating “boring health food”. Generally speaking, Diabetes may be controlled by choosing high fiber carbohydrates, limiting sweets, and eating regularly, along with living a physically active lifestyle. A Diabetes diet is high in nutrients, low in fat, and moderate in calories.
Studies show that the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes increases with age. It is estimated that half of all new diabetes cases are diagnosed among those age 55 years and older. Most elderly are not as active, there’s a natural insulin production decline with aging, and also an increase of glucose intolerance in the elderly. Some symptoms of diabetes include:-urinating more often than usual, feeling tired and irritable, feeling thirsty and hungry all the time, and having vision problems.
It’s best to focus on high fiber, complex (slow release) carbs, because they are digested more slowly, and prevent the body from producing too much insulin. They also provide energy and help us to stay full longer. Some healthy carbs include:-brown or wild rice, rolled oats, bran muffin, sweet yams, and cauliflower mash. More menu ideas are presented in this handout.
Beyond diet and exercise, here are some practical tips to help manage diabetes:- *take medication as directed. *eat healthy meals at regular intervals- keep glucose tablets or high energy snacks at hand.*closely monitor blood pressure and cholesterol- get laboratory tests done routinely.*don’t miss doctors’ visits.* save on prescriptions, visits, and diabetic necessities. programs for seniors, Medicaid, or Medicare, might help with expenses. *consider using an insulin pen. Look for diabetes products to help with arthritis or other mobility issues.* eat more vegetables, whole grains and fruit.* keep an eye out for foot blisters, tooth loss, and other health problems. Get regular feet, eyes, kidney, and dental checkups to monitor any diabetes complication.* look out for free magazines at doctor offices and pharmacies- often they contain useful information and offers.
Some Diabetes Management Resources are:-
*American Diabetes Assn. (diabetes.org);*American Dietetic Assn. (EatRight.org).