Living with diabetes: The journey made easier

Anyone who has to deal with diabetes tends to become fearful of the many restrictions that come about in their lifestyle. It may seem that their lives will never feel the same again. Every World Diabetes Day, let’s shed the stigma associated with diabetes and be more open about better ways to tackle the disease.

Just a few simple habits can help you stay on track in your journey.

1. Consume the right food
 

The basic to optimal health always includes the right food. Not only do you want to incorporate a balanced meal into your diet, but you also need to be aware of portion sizes and your carbohydrate intake. It is essential you know the number of carbohydrates you consume to control your blood sugar levels. A good idea is to use measuring cups or a scale to help you track portion sizes. Knowing the exact amount of food you are consuming can genuinely benefit your health.

2. Create a workout plan

Your workout plan should consist of what works best for you. Consult with your doctor to figure out what exercises are appropriate for you. Maintain a fixed schedule to ensure you get a daily workout in for at least 30 minutes around the same time every day. This will help you stay on track.

3. Control your cholesterol
 

Cholesterol, in general, isn’t bad. But there is a type of ‘bad’ cholesterol, known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL). This, in particular, can clog up your vessels, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. To ensure you keep the bad cholesterol away and keep your health in check, you need ‘good’ cholesterol or also known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL), in your body.

4. Keep a tab of your blood sugar level

Checking your blood glucose level each day may be part of your new routine. Monitoring your blood sugar levels becomes even more imperative if you take insulin. Keeping a tab of your levels can help keep your health in check. You can monitor your blood glucose level with a blood glucose meter, thus allowing you to test at home.

5. Be regular with your medication

Always ensure you take your medicines on time. Never skip a day of medication, and make sure to store it properly. When using insulin, ensure it has not gone past its expiration date or stored in extreme temperatures.  

6. Avoid stress

Stress can lead to an increase in your blood sugar levels, which can be harmful. Avoid taking any extra pressure that can leave you anxious, and look out for signs that may be pointing to a change in your health—practice relaxation methods such as meditation to help you feel better.

Last words

There is also the fear of the financial burden that a medical like diabetes brings with it. However, you can manage it by adopting certain practices. Ensure you have a savings account and keep adding to it to be able to afford treatment. Smaller acts, like buying your medication or blood glucose meter on a credit card, is also a good idea. Take advantage of reward points, ideally rewards that don’t expire – such as the IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Card. Get a lifetime free credit card, 0% interest on ATM withdrawals up to 48 days and more.

At first glance, the list of lifestyle changes may seem a lot, but it’s only a matter of time and some minor adjustments. Your life doesn’t have to look drastically different. Surround yourself with friends and family and get all the help to make the transition easier. 

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.