Blood sugar level is the amount of glucose (sugar) you have in your bloodstream.
Glucose is the main source of energy for your organs, muscles and tissues.
It can be found in most foods.
Your blood will carry glucose to all the cells in your body.
To carry the glucose into the cells, a hormone called insulin is needed.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that converts glucose and other food into the energy needed for life.
Normally blood glucose levels will stay within narrow limits throughout the day with the exception being that it's higher after meals and usually lowest in the morning.
In some people, insulin may not be produced in sufficient quantities (or even at all), or their bodies may not be able to use it.
These people have high sugar readings even when they have not eaten.
Inconsistent blood sugar levels may indicate diabetes.
Too much glucose in the blood over a long period of time can put you at risk for a number of problems associated with diabetes.
This may include increased risk for heart disease and stroke, nerve damage, kidney disease, eye problems along with other complications in your skin, feet and mouth.
If you're like most people you want to take control of your life and not have to deal with the complications associated with diabetes.
The good news is that you can! Many of the habits recommended for living a healthy lifestyle can play a positive role in managing diabetes.
By choosing the right foods, exercising regularly, maintaining a proper weight, reducing stress, and controlling your blood sugar level you can make living with diabetes easier.
Below is an overview of the healthy lifestyle habits you need to consider.
•Exercise: Being physically active is very important in managing type 2 diabetes.
It will help you control your blood sugar levels, weight and blood pressure.
In addition, exercise can raise your good cholesterol and lower your bad cholesterol.
All this together can reduce your risk of developing complications associated with diabetes.
•Healthy Diet: Although there is no specific diet for people with diabetes, healthy eating habits along with good control of your blood sugar are important in controlling the disease.
Understanding what and how much to eat can be a challenging task.
If possible, consult with a nutritionist or dietitian to determine the diet best for you.
General guidelines for those with diabetes include a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
It is a good idea to monitor your carbohydrate intake through carbohydrate counting or food exchange lists.
Limit saturated fats and trans-fats found in snack foods, fried foods and commercially baked goods.
Consider eating fewer animal products and keep the sweets only for special occasions.
•Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight is the number one risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
Reducing your weight by just a little bit can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes.
In those already with diabetes, proper weight management can slow the progression of type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk factors for various other complications.
•Reduce Stress: Hormones produced in prolonged stressful situations can have an impact on insulin and keep it from working properly.
Relaxation and various stress reduction techniques can be effective in controlling diabetes.
•Blood Glucose Monitoring: Be sure to check your blood glucose daily and record it in your daily log.
Careful monitoring is critical for controlling complications.
•Good Hygiene: It is important to check your feet for cuts, sores, blisters, swelling, and redness on a daily basis.
In addition, you should be sure to brush and floss daily.
•Don't Smoke: No more said! Today there are nearly 24 million children and adults who have diabetes with almost one quarter of them unaware they even have the disease.
Each year, about 1.
6 million people age 20 or older are diagnosed with diabetes.
Incorporate these healthy choices in your lifestyle today to avoid the complications associated with high blood sugar and diabetes.