Have Type 2 Diabetes? 3 Lifestyle Changes To Improve Your Blood Glucose
When you have type 2 diabetes any positive changes you can make to your lifestyle might improve your blood glucose or potentially reverse diabetes. There are several lifestyle changes you need to make which may allow you to reduce or stop diabetes medications and prevent diabetes-related complications.
Dietary Modifications
Your diet plays the most significant role in blood glucose control, so you should focus on your diet above all else. Sometimes the main problem for diabetics is processed foods and eating too many simple carbohydrates. Simple carbs spike blood glucose and are fast digesting, which also makes you hungry faster. Avoid simple carbs as much as possible and opt for slow-digesting carbs, such as whole grain variations of pasta and bread. However, even slow-digesting carbs should be minimized in people with type 2 diabetes. Relying more on lean protein and non-starchy vegetables is usually the best option for diabetics.
Supplements And Food
There are several supplements on the market as well as specific foods that can help improve blood glucose, especially when combined with other lifestyle changes.
Prickly pear is a type of cactus that has several health benefits including positive effects on blood glucose. You will most likely find prickly pear in supplement form, but there are also other prickly pear products for blood sugar. Some people may be able to find the cactus in specialty grocery stores. Depending on the part of the prickly pear you are going to consume, it is usually treated like a fruit or vegetable in dishes.
Another option is cinnamon, which is also easiest to take in pill form. Of course, you can add cinnamon to both sweet and savory foods to enhance the flavor and receive health benefits.
Regular Exercise
You may only think of the weight loss benefits associated with exercise as it relates to blood glucose. Although losing weight can be important for some people with type 2 diabetes, exercise has other effects on blood glucose. Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and can lower your blood glucose. If you plan on participating in exercise, it is best to talk with your doctor beforehand to determine the appropriate way to manage your blood glucose before, during, and after physical activity. Your doctor may recommend checking your blood glucose at certain intervals, especially if you have lengthy workout sessions. You should also have a simple snack, such as fruit, readily available just in case your blood glucose drops too low during workouts.
Diet, supplements, and exercise are the main lifestyle factors that will have a positive impact on your blood glucose. Making small, consistent changes will give you the best chance at avoiding life-altering complications associated with diabetes.