8 Smart Lifestyle Tips to Manage Diabetes

What’s your blood sugar level? When you’re trying to manage diabetes, keeping your blood sugar, or glucose levels, in check is a constant battle.

Sometimes it’s high. Sometimes it’s too low. And every now and then it’s right where it should be. Sound familiar? Diet, exercise, lifestyle, pre-existing conditions, and medications can all have an impact on blood sugar levels. And if you’re serious about staying healthy, you can probably do more to manage your blood sugar. Here are 8 diabetes life hacks to help you control blood sugar levels:

1. Test your blood sugar levels

You know the drill. It’s a simple finger-prick test. And voila, your glucose monitor gives you the numbers. It’s the best way to know where you’re at, so you can make diet and lifestyle changes if you need to. Based on your doctor’s advice, you may want to test your blood sugar levels a couple hours after eating.

2. Track your steps & activity

Everyone should get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, or 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Tracking your steps and setting a daily goal is a great way to help you stay active. Aim for 10,000 steps a day.

3. Eat healthy foods.

It’s really not that complicated. Most of your food should come from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, nuts & seeds, fish, and legumes. Fresh is best. Check out the complete line of Diabetic-Friendly meals made from fresh ingredients here.

4. Make one healthy swap per day

It’s a simple way to cut calories and reduce sugar and simple carbohydrates in your diet. Have an apple instead of a candybar. Drink a glass of water instead of a soda. Eat a leafy-green salad instead of a slice of pizza.

5. Be smart about dining out

You can find the menu for most restaurants online now. Take a look at the menu before you go out, and before you order. Most restaurant meals are big enough for two. And many are high in calories. Plan ahead, share a meal, and order healthier options when you go out.

6. Try sugar-free gum

It’s a great way to curb your snack craving, especially for the kind of food that can skyrocket blood sugar levels.

7. Eat more fruits & vegetables

Did you know only 9 percent of adults eat enough vegetables, and only 12 percent eat enough fruit? You can do better. Most adults should eat 1-2 cups of fruit per day, and 2 to 3 cups of vegetables per day. Every one of our Diabetic-Friendly meals contains fresh vegetables.

8. Use a smaller plate It’s no secret that being overweight or obese contributes to diabetes, and creates complications with regulating blood sugar levels. Want to keep your weight and blood sugar in check? Use smaller plates when you eat at home to avoid overeating.With a little practice, you can make smart lifestyle choices to control blood sugar levels and protect your health.