How to Live with Diabetes

Once upon a time, diabetes was a death sentence and people could only expect to live for a few years after diagnosis. Luckily, with the introduction of modern medicine such as insulin and more research into how to live well with diabetes, this is no longer the case. These days, with a few minor alterations to your life, you can expect to live a long and happy life with the condition. Here are some tips on how to live with diabetes.

Diet

You may need to make some changes to your diet to manage the condition well. It is obvious that too much sugar is bad for you. It will affect the level of glucose in your blood and will make your diabetes harder to manage. The condition is also easier to manage if you are not overweight.

You should avoid refined food such as white flour. Replace white bread, white rice, and white pasta with the wholemeal alternative; you will hardly notice the difference, but your blood sugar level will. Aim to eat lots of fibre such as whole grains, and avoid saturated fat, sugar, and salt. Eat as much fruit and vegetables as you can and switch to low-fat dairy. These small changes will make a big difference.

Exercise

Most people need more exercise but this is especially important for diabetics as exercise lowers your resistance to insulin and reduces your likelihood of heart disease. Don’t worry, you don’t need to train for a marathon if you don’t want to, but making small changes will really help.

If it has been a while since you last did any exercise, then start slowly and increase your time and intensity as you get fitter. Walking is fantastic exercise and there are many local walking groups tailored specifically for people with diabetes. You can have fun and make new friends while getting fit. Swimming or running are also fantastic forms of exercise for diabetics. You should aim to exercise at least three times per week to enjoy the most benefit.

Keep In Touch with Your Healthcare Team

Managing your diabetes can seem a bit daunting, but you are not alone. There is plenty of support available for you and support groups for people who are going through the same medical conditions and emotions regarding them as you are. The London Diabetes Centre is a private diabetic clinic with many years’ experience in helping people with your condition. They can give you advice on diet and exercise as well as helping you to create a plan specific to your needs that will help you manage the condition.

Diabetes is probably a lot more common than you think and, with the right mindset, it does not have to be a challenge to live with. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help if you need it. Remember, making lots of small changes will add up and create one big one, i.e., your ability to live life to the full while managing the condition.