Diabetes is a chronic medical condition in which your blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are too high. The problem lies in your body’s inability to produce or utilize insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar.

While there is no cure for diabetes, proper management can help control symptoms and prevent complications. Here are some strategies for managing diabetes, including lifestyle changes, medication, and regular check-ups with a healthcare professional.

1. Maintain a healthy diet

One of the most important strategies for managing diabetes is maintaining a healthy diet. This includes eating a variety of foods in the right portions. Try to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your meals.

Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, as well as foods high in sugar and salt. Talk to a registered dietician or your healthcare provider for personalized advice on creating a healthy eating plan that works for you.

2. Stay physically active

Regular physical activity is crucial for managing diabetes. Exercise helps your body use insulin more efficiently, which can lower blood sugar levels.

It can also help improve cardiovascular health, which is important since people with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, most days of the week.

Strength-training exercises, such as lifting weights or doing resistance exercises, are also important for maintaining muscle mass and bone density. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.

3. Monitor your blood sugar

Monitoring your blood sugar regularly is crucial for managing diabetes. Your healthcare provider may recommend checking your blood sugar levels at home using a glucose meter.

This can help you keep track of your blood sugar trends and adjust your medication or lifestyle habits accordingly. Be sure to follow your provider’s instructions for how often to check your blood sugar and what your target range should be.

4. Take your medication as prescribed

For many people with diabetes, medication is an important part of management. Types of medication may include insulin, oral medications, or injectable medications.

It is important to take your medication as prescribed and to let your healthcare provider know if you experience any side effects or have trouble sticking to your medication regimen. Do not stop taking any medication without first consulting your healthcare provider.

5. Manage stress levels

Stress can have a negative impact on blood sugar levels, so it is important to manage stress levels as part of managing diabetes. Find healthy ways to reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time with friends and family.

Consider talking with a mental health professional if you are struggling to manage stress on your own.

6. Get regular check-ups

Regular check-ups with a healthcare professional are important for managing diabetes. Your healthcare provider can help you monitor your blood sugar levels, manage your medication and lifestyle habits, and track your progress over time.

They can also help identify any potential complications and take steps to prevent or manage them.

7. Invest in proper foot care

People with diabetes are at an increased risk for foot problems due to poor circulation and nerve damage.

It is important to invest in proper foot care, including checking your feet regularly for signs of injury or infection and wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes. Your healthcare provider may also recommend seeing a podiatrist for routine foot care or to manage any foot problems you experience.

8. Quit smoking

Smoking can have a negative impact on blood sugar levels and increase the risk of complications associated with diabetes. If you smoke, quitting is an important step for managing your diabetes.

Talk to your healthcare provider about resources available to help you quit smoking.

9. Join a support group

Managing diabetes can be challenging, and it can be helpful to connect with others who are living with the condition.

Consider joining a support group or participating in an online forum to connect with others, share experiences, and learn from each other.

10. Stay informed

Finally, staying informed about diabetes, its management, and any potential complications is important for managing the condition.

Talk to your healthcare provider, read reputable sources of information such as the American Diabetes Association, and stay up-to-date on any new developments in diabetes management and treatment.