Type 2 Diabetes: Quick Tricks to Improve your Life
A type 2 diabetes diagnosis leads to significant lifestyle changes, most of them regarding diet. Sticking to a specific diet and medication plan can be a headache. Keep reading for some helpful suggestions that will enable you to better manage your condition and live an active, healthy life.
Snacks are a vital part of blood sugar management. Soluble fiber tells the liver to stop producing glucose, which helps your body regulate blood sugar levels. Choose fiber-rich snacks like citrus fruits, carrots, oatmeal, and apples. To maintain a stable blood sugar level throughout the day, pack your bag or purse with ready-to-go snacks. We suggest:
- ¾ cup blueberries
- 1 cup popcorn
- 10 baby carrots and 3 tablespoons hummus
When it’s time to sit down for dinner, divide your meal into three sections to keep your carbohydrates in check. Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables like green beans, broccoli, asparagus, or peppers. Divide the other half into two equal halves and fill one with lean meat (fish, chicken breast, etc.) and the other with a low-glycemic carb like sweet potatoes or quinoa.
Boost your meals with low-carb, high-nutrient greens like kale and spinach. You can sauté or steam these veggies for a yummy, easy side dish. Want to add more flavor? Choose herbs instead of salt. Diabetes increases your risk of stroke and heart attack, so it’s doubly important to maintain a healthy blood pressure. We recommend cayenne pepper, garlic, basil, and oregano.
Water should always be your go-to drink, but when you need a little caffeine boost, choose diet soda. If you’re eating out and you’re not sure if the waitress brought you diet or regular, simply dip a urine glucose strip into the drink. Normal soda will make the test strip change color.
Did you know: You can enjoy many of your favorite high-carb dishes by substituting cauliflower. This vegetable can be turned into carb-free rice, mashed potatoes, pizza crust, and more! When you do eat carbs, choose whole grains. Foods like bulgur, barley, and kasha are rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber and are believed to lower your risk of heart disease.
Tip: Arrange your medicine cabinet so that the oldest medications are in front. This will ensure that you never use any expired supplies or medications.
Incorporate these habits into your daily routine and with just a little planning and preparation you will find managing your condition to be much easier.
