How to Manage Blood Sugar

Any chronic disease is tough to live with. If you have diabetes you know the special challenges this disease brings to the table. Here is a list of things you can do to help manage your blood sugar levels and keep diabetes under control.

1. Avoid soda, juice and other high sugar beverages. Not a fan of plain water? Try sparkling water, or add a natural flavor such as fresh limes, lemons or mint!
2. Diet soda will not raise your blood sugar, but it is not a health drink! Studies have shown that drinking fake sugar still makes your body crave sweet things just as much as regular soda pop. So drinking "sugarless" really does not help your cause at all.
3. Eat small meals throughout the day that are a combination of healthy fats, quality carbs and lean proteins. This keeps your blood sugar stable and your hunger at bay.
4. Limit saturated fats and avoid trans fats.
5. Eat an abundance of plant foods and whole grains daily. These fill you up faster and keep you feeling satisfied. Try some of these veggie laden, whole grain recipes.
6. Know your A1C number. This test is a snapshot of your blood sugar levels during a two to three month period. It allows you and your doctor to see how you are doing in regulating your sugar levels overall. It gives great guidance on how to proceed with your treatments, and whether or not you should change any course.
7. Exercise and try to maintain a healthy weight. These two are really the "magic pill" in controlling your diabetes.
8. Keep yourself educated and talk with your doctor or a diabetes educator. Being knowledgeable about your disease and your health is the best defense against future complications.

Controlling you blood sugar and managing you diabetes is the best way to make sure it doesn't control or manage you! With a few steps in the right direction you will be well on your way.