Live (Well!) with Type 2 Diabetes
It’s common to feel a bit overwhelmed when you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. You may be learning the steps you should take to stay healthy, but that doesn’t make it easy to adjust to this new lifestyle.
Stress can raise blood sugar, so it’s important to learn ways to lower your stress levels. Try deep breathing, gardening, taking a walk, meditating, working on a hobby or listening to your favorite music. Ask for help if you feel down. A mental-health counselor, support group, friend or family member who will listen to your concerns may help you feel better.
Eat well. Make a diabetes meal plan with help from your healthcare team. Choose foods that are lower in calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar and salt. Eat foods with more fiber, such as whole grain breads, cereals, rice or pasta. Choose foods such as fruits, veggies and low-fat dairy products. Drink water instead of juice and regular soda.
Set a goal to be more active most days of the week. Start slowly if you have been inactive by taking 10-minute walks three times per day.
Discuss how your diabetes plan is working each time you visit your healthcare provider.
–Source: National Institutes of Health
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