When you have diabetes, you have too much sugar in your blood. Glucose, or blood sugar, provides energy for your cells, including your brain.
Unfortunately, when your blood sugar remains high for long periods, it can damage the delicate vessels that carry blood throughout your body, putting your health at risk.
Symptoms of high blood sugar include:
Fortunately, if you learn to manage your blood sugar, you can keep your diabetes symptoms at bay. Terry L. Franklin, MD, helps his diabetic patients manage their condition. Here, we share some of his recommendations.
When you have diabetes, the first thing you should do is establish a relationship with a doctor you trust. Their expertise can help ensure you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your health and wellness.
Dr. Franklin offers primary care and functional medicine for every stage of life. Whether you need wellness care, lifestyle education, or family medicine, his personalized approach ensures you get a diabetes treatment strategy that’s right for you.
Blood sugar comes directly from the food you eat, so it’s crucial to watch your diet when you have diabetes. This usually includes:
Dr. Franklin can outline a healthy meal strategy based on your individual needs, but being more aware of what’s on your plate is the first place to start.
If you need more motivation to exercise, do it for your blood sugar.
It’s probably not a surprise that regular activity helps keep your weight in check and lowers your risk of heart disease. But did you know your muscles use glucose for energy whenever you move your body?
Exercise also helps your system use insulin more efficiently. That’s the hormone in your body that manages the sugar in your blood. Even light activities like gardening or housework can help improve your blood sugar. But the harder you work, the longer the benefits last.
To get started, Dr. Franklin suggests:
Because exercise affects your blood sugar, you may have to adjust your medications, especially if you increase your activity. Play it safe, track your numbers, and have a small snack or glucose tablets nearby in case your blood sugar level drops.
Did you know that stress actually causes a hormonal response in your body that can increase your blood sugar? Fortunately, learning to identify these patterns can help you take control so you can fight back.
Try adding a few stress-reducing activities to your daily life, like light exercise, meditation, or even hobbies — anything that leaves you feeling relaxed and balanced. Dr. Franklin can offer additional suggestions based on your needs.
It’s always smart to drink responsibly, but it’s even more important when you have high blood sugar. Your liver has the task of releasing glucose when your blood sugar levels fall. But if it’s busy trying to metabolize alcohol you consumed, it can't give you the blood sugar boost you need, when you need it. And, most concerning, this effect can last up to 24 hours.
Before consuming a drink, talk to Dr. Franklin to make sure it’s safe for you. Never drink on an empty stomach and avoid high calorie, high carbohydrate options, like sweet blender drinks.
Dr. Franklin says an occasional drink is safe for you, but remember that it still counts as calories, even though you drink them instead of eat them.
And since alcohol can also affect your blood sugar long after, it’s crucial to check your glucose levels before going to bed and having a snack if needed.
These are just a few ways you can take care of yourself so you can avoid diabetes symptoms. For personalized recommendations designed specifically for you, contact our Monterey, California, office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Franklin today.
