Being diagnosed with diabetes doesn’t mean the end of life. Here, we share tips on how you can continue to live life to the fullest in every aspect.
Eating
A diabetic diet is just a healthy eating plan to help you better control your blood sugar. Your blood sugar levels can rise and dip with food intake. If you are always wondering what you can and cannot eat, start by eating foods rich in nutrients and low in fat and calories and stick to regular mealtimes. Eat more fruits and vegetables and consume less sugar and salt.
Working
Work brings with it stress, irregular meals and irregular hours. These can spike up your blood glucose levels. So, while you are working hard, do these to maintain your health:
- Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly.
- Ensure you have regular mealtimes and snacks as well as regular break times.
- Incorporate physical activity to unwind and stay fit. Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week
- Get enough sleep and engage in relaxing activities whenever possible.
Pregnant
High blood glucose can lead to birth defects of the heart, brain or spine. It can increase the chance of premature birth, miscarriage and stillborn. Your baby may be overweight, have breathing problems or low blood glucose right after birth.
Work closely with your healthcare team including your endocrinologist, gynaecologist and dietitian to ensure your medical, nutritional and physical needs are well managed.
- Monitor your glucose levels closely and keep it at the recommended levels.
- Exercise to reach your target blood glucose levels.
- Eat right according to your dietitian’s meal plan
Travelling
Planning well can make the difference between a stressful of enjoyable holiday especially for diabetics. If you control your diabetes well, travelling the world and enjoying the sights and foods are no issue at all.
- Speak to your doctor before your trip especially if you are travelling across different time zones.
- Bring along a list of your medications and their generic names signed off by your doctor.
- Get your doctor to write a letter on your medical supplies especially if you use insulin.
- Bring along ample medications and keep them in separate bags in case they get misplaced.
- Drink and eat normally.
Sick
When unwell, you may experience higher sugar levels than usual. Here’s what you should do to not worsen your condition:
- Check your glucose levels regularly.
- Eat as normally as possible
- Drink plain water rather than sugary drinks.
- Continue with your medication unless your doctor advised otherwise.
Sleeping
If you are diabetic and experiencing poor sleep, you are not alone. Diabetics are at higher risk of sleep disorders including sleep apnoea, restless leg syndrome and insomnia. Poor sleep can further alter your hormonal balance, affecting food intake and weight.
Do these for better sleep:
- Get enough sleep. Aim for eight hours daily.
- Stick to a regular bed time.
- Look into your sleep hygiene factors.
Are you diabetic and wondering if your insurance covers any treatments you may need in the future? Do head over here to see if we can answer any of your frequently asked questions or contact us here for a full consultation.
