5 Practical Steps to Managing Your Blood Sugar

Living with diabetes means paying attention to your blood sugar. Keeping it in a healthy range is super important for feeling your best and staying healthy long-term. It might seem like a lot, but managing your blood sugar doesn't have to be overwhelming. 

Here are five simple, practical steps you can start taking today!

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Focus on Fueling Your Body with Food

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Think about what you eat as fuel for your body. The right foods can help keep your blood sugar steady. Focus on:

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• Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oats are better choices than white bread or sugary cereals. They have fiber that slows down sugar absorption. (Mayo Clinic)
• Lean Proteins: Chicken, fish, beans, and tofu can help you feel full and don't cause big blood sugar spikes.
• Lots of Veggies and Fruits: These are packed with vitamins and fiber. Just remember that fruits have natural sugar, so eat them in moderation.

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Try to limit sugary drinks, candies, and processed snacks. They can send your blood sugar soaring!

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Get Moving Every Day

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Being active is a powerful tool for managing blood sugar. When you exercise, your muscles use sugar for energy, which helps lower the amount of sugar in your blood.

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You don't need to run a marathon! Even short bursts of activity can make a difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could be:

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• A brisk walk
• Dancing
• Riding a bike
• Playing a sport

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Find something you enjoy so it's easier to stick with!

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Take Your Medications as Prescribed

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If your therapy includes the use of insulin to cover for the glucose you've consumed, be sure to understand when to measure your blood glucose levels and how to adjust your dose accordingly. This may be the most complicated step of all for insulin-dependent individuals. Seek your pharmacist's or provider's assistance in understanding how to manage insulin properly.

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Don't skip doses or stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor first. If you have questions or side effects, speak with your provider or pharmacist as soon as possible!

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Check Your Blood Sugar Regularly

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Checking your blood sugar with a meter gives you important information. It helps you see how different foods, activities, and medicines affect your numbers.

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Your provider will tell you how often you should check. Keeping a log of your readings can also be helpful for you and your healthcare team to see patterns and make adjustments.

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Stay Connected with Your Healthcare Team

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Your provider, diabetes educator, pharmacist, and dietitian are your partners in managing diabetes. Don't hesitate to ask them questions. They can help you create a personalized plan, offer advice, and adjust your treatment as needed. Regular check-ups are key to making sure your plan is working for you!

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By taking these five practical steps, you'll be well on your way to better blood sugar management and a healthier, happier you!

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The information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not replace direct medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

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Sources: 

“Diabetes.” Mayo Clinic.