Since the beginning of the year, the airwaves have been dominated by the coronavirus pandemic. Alongside general COVID-19 guidance to minimise the risk of contracting the virus, those living with diabetes need to take extra care and precaution to keep the condition under control.
Stress levels will rise during these unsettling times, which can disrupt your routine and may contribute towards worsening outcomes both during and after the pandemic. It’s important that you take care of your mind and body throughout. So, here are seven lifestyle changes you can make to control your diabetes during the pandemic.
Eat A Healthy Balanced Diet
One of the best ways to keep your diabetes under control is by changing your diet and eating healthy. The foods you put in your body affect your blood sugar. So, while no foods are forbidden, you should concentrate on eating only as much as your body requires. Make sure you incorporate plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and opt for lean meats and non-fat dairy. Foods that are rich in fat are best avoided. If you struggle to give up snacks and sugary foods, you should eat them in moderation, rather than making them the norm.
Exercise Regularly
If you are working from home due to the coronavirus pandemic, you may lose the motivation for exercise. If you aren’t active now, it is time to get started. With local lockdowns being implemented across the country, your local gym may shut as a result. So, exercising from the comfort of your own home can help keep you fit and healthy, bring down your blood sugar and help you control your diabetes. Regular physical activity also lowers your risk of getting heart disease.
Get Regular Checkups
If you have diabetes, you must see your doctor at least twice each year. As diabetes increases your chances of heart disease, being seen by a medical professional and having a full examination will put your mind at ease. Knowing your blood pressure levels and cholesterol levels will help you make further lifestyle changes. If you experience nerve damage or foot ulcers, you must schedule an appointment with a foot doctor.
Manage Stress Levels
The coronavirus pandemic has wreaked havoc on millions of people’s mental health. If you fall into this category, high stress levels will do you no favours and can make your diabetes worse. If you feel anxious and under pressure, you may forget to take certain medications, eat the right foods, or exercise. So, trying out different stress relieving strategies like 4-7-8 breathing and meditation can help calm you down.
Stop Smoking
There are numerous health problems that are associated with diabetes, including eye disease, heart disease, and kidney disease. If you are a smoker, the chances of getting these issues are even higher. Smoking can also make it more difficult to work out, and we’re all aware of the other dangers smoking presents. So, make sure that you speak with your doctor, who can advise you further on techniques to help you pack the habit in for good. You may be smoking more cigarettes due to the uncertainty linked with the coronavirus pandemic. If this is the case, there are lots of support groups online that you can join to connect with others in the same position which will increase your chances of stopping.
Watch Your Alcohol Intake
It can be much easier to manage your blood sugar if you don’t drink alcohol. However, if you do choose to drink, make sure you don’t overdo things. Alcohol can raise your decrease your blood sugar, which can be highly dangerous if you have diabetes. Before you begin drinking, you should check your blood sugar and take the necessary steps to avoid low blood sugars. For those who take drugs or use insulin for their diabetes, make sure that you eat while you are drinking. With many of us spending more time in our homes than ever before due to COVID-19, you may be more prone to having a pint of beer or glass of wine. So, as long as you drink in moderation and keep a close eye on your blood sugars, your health won’t be compromised.
Take Out Life Insurance
Generally, people with diabetes aren’t at an increased risk of getting the coronavirus. However, should you contract the virus, it can cause more severe symptoms and complications, which is why you should consider taking out diabetes life insurance. Companies like I’m Insured provide free online quotes which can put your mind at ease. Knowing your loved ones are financially supported should you experience any complications from the coronavirus.
Although we find ourselves in unprecedented times, there are many lifestyle changes you can make to help you stay in control of your diabetes.
We hope this article has been informative and will help keep you stay fit and healthy!
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