Nearly 28 million Americans have type 2 diabetes, a chronic disease that can cause the blood sugar (AKA glucose) traveling through your blood vessels to rise to higher-than-normal levels. Glucose is essential for providing your muscles and tissues with energy, but if your body is unable to extract and efficiently use the sugar that’s in transit in your blood, it can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, nerve damage and kidney problems.
Fortunately, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to help control blood sugar and better manage diabetes, including:
- Monitoring your blood glucose levels
- Taking medication as directed by your doctor
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising (aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week.)
- Keeping a food record
- Quitting smoking
- Drinking alcohol in moderation (if at all)
In addition, check out these three simple diet swaps you can make for a huge payoff.
