Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is a crucial part of managing diabetes. If left uncontrolled, diabetes can contribute to some severe complications. A combination of a balanced diet, regular physical activity and mindful choices play an important role in maintaining your health. However, many make small mistakes unknowingly on a day-to-day basis that can worsen your blood sugar levels. Some of the most common errors are listed below:
Not Keeping Track of Carbohydrates
Counting carbohydrates is essential for diabetics. This is because carbs, when not metabolized, raise your blood sugar. The key is to eat the right amount of carbohydrates at each meal, and snack, to prevent high or low blood sugar. The best way to do this is by keeping a food journal or using a smartphone app that can help you count carbs and calories.
2. Not Keeping In Mind the Differences Between Different Carbohydrates
The carbohydrate content of foods varies from one type to another. For example, a slice of bread has more carbs than a cup of fruit juice. When planning meals, it is important to take the amount of carbs into account and choose foods that are lower in carbohydrate. Also, eating carbs with protein or fat can slow down the rise in blood sugar.
Not Getting Plenty of Rest
It’s important to get enough sleep as it can affect your blood sugar levels. Getting too little sleep can cause your blood sugar to spike, while too much can cause it to drop. It’s also important to get plenty of exercise and reduce stress as this can also affect your blood sugar level.
Not Checking Your Blood Sugar Often
It is vital to check your blood sugar on a daily basis. This helps you stay aware of what is affecting your glucose and makes it easier to make adjustments. It is recommended to check your blood sugar before each meal, and 1 to 2 hours after each meal. You should also test your urine for ketones on a regular basis. If you see ketones in your urine, call your doctor immediately.
Not Eating a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet can prevent blood sugar spikes and improve your overall health. Try to include more fruits, vegetables and whole grains and fewer processed foods in your diet. Also, eat lean meats, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats to help keep your blood sugar stable.
Not Having Enough Fluids
Getting enough fluids is vital for people with diabetes. If you don’t have enough fluids in your body, it can lead to dehydration and a variety of other problems. To stay hydrated, try to drink water and non-fat milk instead of soda or fruit juice.
Using an Insulin Pen Wrong
It’s important to use a insulin pen correctly in order to avoid complications. It’s also important to know how each brand of insulin works and how it reacts with certain foods. You should also avoid storing your insulin in hot or cold places, as it may lose its effectiveness.
