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5 Lifestyle Tips for Avoiding Diabetes Complications

Diabetes is a serious condition. Managing it requires lifelong responsibility, otherwise, there is a risk of severe complications. These include eye problems, a higher risk of a stroke and heart attack, and kidney issues. There are several types of diabetes, which are type 1, type 2, and gestational (diabetes while pregnant).

Whichever one you have, here are some lifestyle changes you can make to avoid diabetes complications.


Lose Extra Weight

For those who are overweight or obese, you are at a higher risk of numerous health issues, such as cardiovascular disease. If you have diabetes, shifting the pounds and moving towards a healthier weight will make it easier to control blood sugars. London Diabetes Centre are specialists when it comes to helping those with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. For example, if you have type 1 diabetes, they can partner with you every step of the way to help you lose weight and manage your condition effectively.


Monitor Blood Sugar Levels

Monitoring your blood sugar (otherwise known as blood glucose) is an important step in diabetes care. When you check your blood sugar, you can establish what makes your numbers go up or go down. This could be because of certain foods you’re eating or stress. When you exercise and take your medication, your numbers may go down. Your GP can arrange a blood test to determine your blood sugar levels. This normally takes between 1 and 2 days for results to come back.


Stop Smoking

There are no good reasons to smoke. The habit can cause lung disease, heart disease, and cancer. If you have diabetes and smoke, you’re twice as likely to die prematurely when compared to those who don’t. When you quit the habit, this will help your heart and lungs, as well as decrease blood pressure. Stopping smoking also lowers your risk of having a heart attack. We understand it’s not as simple as throwing away your cigarettes, so contact your doctor for help and support in packing in for good.


Keep Moving

Exercise is key when it comes to managing diabetes. Just make sure you pick an activity you enjoy and are careful, especially if you have type 1 diabetes. Whether it’s biking, dancing, or walking, 30 minutes of daily exercise is great for lowering your cardiovascular risk, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Regular exercise can decrease stress and may even help in cutting back on diabetes medication.


Get More Sleep

Too little or too much sleep can raise your appetite and make you crave high-carb foods. Over time, this can result in weight gain, as well as increase your risk of heart disease. When you’re getting the recommended amount of shuteye (between 7 and 9 hours), you may discover it’s easier to control your blood sugar. This is because you’ll be more alert throughout the day and have more energy and stamina.

If you have diabetes, knowing how to keep the condition under control is essential for preventing nerve, heart, and foot problems. While it will take round-the-clock commitment on your behalf, your efforts will pay off and help you lead a good quality of life, without the worry of developing serious, or even life-threatening complications.