As a diabetic your daily diet is extremely important because what you eat directly affects your blood sugar levels, which ideally should be between 4mmol/l – 7mmol/l ( 75mg/dL – 120mg/dL .

It must be said that most diabetics have difficulty maintaining this measurement. What you eat also affects the level of cholesterol in your blood and your blood pressure.
By eating ‘good’ foods you also manage your weight. This doesn’t mean you have to go on a special diet. I find the Glycaemic Index is a sensible guide.

Foods low in fat, salt and sugar, with plenty of fruit, vegetables and pulses. This is the ideal diet for everyone, not just diabetics. When I changed my eating habits, I lost over a stone in weight in about three months.

  • It’s important to try to keep to a regular routine when you can.
  • Allow about three hours between each meal. This way it’s easier to keep blood sugar levels in check.
  • Cut down on fat saturated foods – throw out the deep-fat fryer.
  • Eat a good selection of fruit and vegetables, and include various pulses. There are many varieties of beans and lentils.
  • Try to have oily fish a couple of times a week, as they contain Omega 3. Mackerel, pilchards, salmon and sardines are ideal.
  • Limit sugary foods. You don’t have to go sugar-free. Sweeteners are a great help if you have a sweet tooth.
  • Definitely cut out the sugary fizzy drinks.

I was advised by my diabetic nurse to never  buy special diabetic food products  such a diabetic chocolate or jam. They are a complete waste of money and of no benefit whatsoever to diabetics.

Careful diet and gentle exercise.

Some physical activity is really important for your health. You don’t have to train for a marathon, although many diabetics do. I find that by taking a brisk walk first thing in the morning, I can keep my insulin medication down to a minimum. Exercise is marvellous for lowering blood sugar levels. It also helps to prevent a heart attack or stroke, which is one of the complications of diabetes. Regular exercise also strengthens your bones and relieves gnawing aches and pains.

Do keep in mind that even gentle exercise will lower your blood sugar levels, so always carry some glucose tablets, a glucose drink, and something starchy with you, just in case you start to feel a bit ‘wobbly’. I always have jelly babies and a flapjack in my bag at all times, in case of a hypo.

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