Nutrition & Fitness in Diabetes
No matter if you live with type 1 or type 2, diet and exercise are two of the most powerful tools you have. Not only do they help you control your blood sugar, but they can mean the difference between feeling run down and feeling great.
Eat healthy
New diets can feel restrictive and there is no one-size-fits-all diet. While you need to make changes in what and how much you eat, you have access to plenty of guidance.
Eat a variety of foods, including vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy foods, healthy fats, and lean meats or meat substitutes
- Try not to eat too much food
- Try not to eat too much of one type of food
- Space your meals evenly throughout the day
- Avoid skipping meals
Get active
Another part of living a full and healthy life with diabetes is being active. No matter what you do or how you approach it, know that any type of physical activity helps lower your blood sugar. Other benefits of physical activity include:
- Having more energy
- Relieving stress
- Keeping your joints flexible
- Lowering your risk for heart disease and stroke
Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have questions about which activities are right for you. Some types of good physical activity to consider include:
- Aerobic activity (walking, biking, swimming)
- Being active throughout the day (taking the stairs instead of an elevator)
- Strength training (lifting weights or using resistance bands)
Flexibility exercises (stretching and yoga)