3 Things You Should Not Do If You Have Diabetes

If you have diabetes, then you will be aware that it is a condition that requires a drastic change in lifestyle. From diet to exercise to watching your weight, taking the right steps can make a big difference if followed diligently.

That being said, there are some ‘deadly’ sins when it comes to managing your diabetes. These are commonly encountered problems here in our clinic, and I thought I would address them today in this short and ‘sweet’ (yet diabetes safe!) article.

1. Eating Refined Carbs

Many patients of ours love to have biscuits with their sugarless tea or coffee. Often, they choose a ‘less sweet’ option, without realising that biscuits may contain refined carbohydrates (maida) and harmful fats. Instead, choose a sugar free biscuit that is made with whole meal. Alternatively, you could choose a good supplement drink for diabetes as well.They are widely available.

2. Just Doing Your Regular Work

Exercise is probably the most important part of managing diabetes. But many believe that regular household or professional work amounts to exercise. This actually amounts to ‘physical activity’ and not ‘exercise’. When you exercise, you considerably raise your heart rate and blood pressure. Your breathing rate increases, and you get significantly tired. You may be unable to speak. This is not the case with regular activity. Exercise is sustained over 30 – 45 minutes. The heart keeps pumping and the lungs keep expanding. This is not the case with physical activity. Make sure you understand the difference, and get in at least an hour a day of exercise 5 days a week. This will lower your blood sugar.

3. Not Eating On Time

This is a common ‘sin’ of diabetes. While we all lead busy lives, it is not really an excuse to miss meals or not take them on time. Every time you delay your meal, you tell your body that you are ‘starving’. This can change your metabolism completely. The glucose in your bloodstream gets converted to fat, as this can provide you more energy (back to the days of chemistry), leading to weight gain and worsening of diabetes. Instead, take your meals on time, and observe portion control. Small frequent meals are not a bad thing, provided they are balanced and nourishing.

These are 3 deadly sins of diabetes. Taking the right steps at the right time can not just lower sugar; it may even help you reverse diabetes completely. Speak to your doctor if you would like more advice. You could even check out this post if you wish to.