10 Tips For Managing Diabetes Without Drugs
It’s no secret that diabetes can wreak havoc on your body. Complications from the disease cost billions of dollars in medical bills and treatments, not to mention the toll it takes on sufferers’ quality of life. However, some people choose to manage their diabetes without drugs or insulin injections, in part because they don’t like the idea of putting chemicals into their bodies, and also because they want to keep their risk of long-term complications low.
1) Read food labels
When you are reading food labels, it is important to look for the following :
1. Calories per serving, 2. Ingredients, 3. Nutrition Facts 4. Serving size 5. Total carbs 6. Total sugar 7. Protein 8. Fat 9. Fiber 10. Sodium
2) Check your weight regularly
It is important to check your weight regularly because it can help you detect changes in your body that may be indicative of an issue. First, try to weigh yourself at the same time of day (such as first thing in the morning). Second, make sure you are on a level surface so that your measurements are accurate. Third, make sure you have not recently exercised or eaten. Fourth, wear similar clothing and shoes each time you weigh yourself so that any changes in weight are due to fat and not clothing or shoe variations. And lastly, try not to get discouraged if your weight increases!
3) Exercise regularly
One of the most important things you can do to manage your diabetes is exercise. Exercise helps to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels and reduces the risk for heart disease. It also helps people with diabetes sleep better, feel less stressed, and have more energy to get through the day. Just 20 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day can make a difference in managing your diabetes.
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4) Monitor your blood sugar levels
Monitoring your blood sugar levels is the most important thing you can do to help manage diabetes. Most people who have type 2 diabetes will require insulin shots, but there are a few things you can do to help control your blood sugar levels without drugs.
1. Take medications as prescribed by your doctor.
2. Eat healthy foods that are low in carbohydrates and sugars, such as vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins like chicken breast or fish filers.
5) Don’t skip meals
Eating consistently is a key component of managing diabetes. Skipping meals can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate and make it difficult for the body to regulate insulin production. Breakfast is especially important, as missing it may lead to overeating later in the day.
Don't skip breakfast: Missing this meal often leads people to overeat later in the day, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels and other problems related to uncontrolled diabetes.
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6) Take multi-vitamins
Research has shown that taking a multi-vitamin can help manage diabetes without drugs. One study found that those with the highest levels of vitamin D had a significantly lower risk of developing diabetes. Other research has shown that those who take a combination of B vitamins have lower levels of hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood glucose levels, which are both indicators for managing diabetes without drugs.
#5: Consider Alternative Medicine Therapies
Some alternative medicine therapies are also an option for managing diabetes without drugs. Acupuncture has been proven to be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes and is used in many countries around the world as a part-time or full time therapy. Hypnotherapy may also be used to reduce stress and pain due to chronic health conditions like type 2 diabetes.
7) Eat more fiber
A high fiber diet can help to control blood sugar levels, because it slows down the digestion process and makes you feel fuller. Eating a lot of fiber is also important for maintaining good gut health. Fiber helps to feed the good bacteria in your gut and keep them healthy. This will help you maintain a healthy immune system, which is key for preventing diabetes-related complications.
8) Get vaccinated for flu, pneumonia, and shingles
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting vaccinated with a flu shot every year as one of the best ways to prevent influenza. Vaccination is especially important for people with diabetes, who are at high risk for complications from the flu. Pneumonia vaccine can also reduce the chance of serious illness from pneumonia. And shingles vaccine can help prevent shingles, which causes a painful skin rash that can be debilitating if left untreated.
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9) Have regular medical checkups
Regular visits to your doctor are the most important factor in managing diabetes. Be sure to have a yearly visit with your physician, as well as regular screenings for other conditions. This is also a good time to talk about any changes you might want to make in your lifestyle or diet. Your doctor will be able to assess how well these changes are working, and if they need to be adjusted or discontinued.
10) Join a diabetes support group
The first step to managing diabetes without drugs is to join a support group. The group can provide moral support and valuable information about managing the disease. You will also be able to connect with other members who are facing the same challenges as you. Joining a group may also help you find out about local events and programs that can make your life easier.
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