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Taking Care of Your Whole Body: Diabetes Health Tips
It’s essential to take care of your whole body when you have diabetes — not just the parts you can easily see. Taking care of yourself means fostering your overall health and well-being, which includes your oral health, foot health, and even mental health. Of course, staying healthy can be especially challenging when you have a condition like diabetes. But these practical tips from Aunty Lil’s Place can help you maintain head-to-toe health and live more fulfilled than ever!
Exercise and Eating Healthy
Eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise will help keep your blood glucose levels and check while promoting a healthy weight, which can decrease the risk for other serious conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. If you find it hard to stay on track with a healthy diet and fitness routine, talk to your doctor about joining a support group or seeing an endocrinologist or physician who can help you create an individualised plan that works for you.
Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine shouldn’t be a chore or a struggle. You might be surprised at how many practical and accessible opportunities there are to work physical movement into your everyday life and reap positive health benefits.
Something as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a walk during lunchtime, or biking to work can all add up over time and make a difference in your overall fitness level and well-being. Finding creative ways to move throughout the day will help you lead an active lifestyle without any hassle or extra effort.
Oral Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for people with diabetes since they are at higher risk for periodontal disease (gum disease) than those without the condition. To prevent gum disease, brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once a day to remove particles from between your teeth. You’ll also want to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings and keep up with any necessary treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges.
Foot Care
Diabetes makes your feet more prone to developing infections or nerve damage because of poor circulation and decreased sensation. Long story short: make foot care a priority! Here are a few tips for keeping your feet healthy:
- Always wear shoes that fit properly.
- Wash your feet regularly.
- Inspect your feet every day for cuts, blisters, or discoloration.
- Practise proper nail care by cutting nails straight across instead of rounding off corners.
- Use moisturising lotion as needed.
- Avoid walking barefoot in areas where there could be broken glass or sharp objects lying around.
You also want to prioritise your visits to the podiatrist if there are any changes in the colour or texture of the skin on your feet — or if you are experiencing any pain issues — so that you can receive proper treatment immediately. It’s important to find the right shoes and gear to help keep your feet healthy. Shoes specifically designed for diabetics can provide more cushioning and support, as well as deeper tow boxes that allow for greater wiggle room to prevent chafing and blisters.
Other items like compression socks and non-constrictive clothing can help promote increased circulation and prevent various foot problems. Together, these pieces of protective gear can make all the difference in keeping your feet healthy and reducing pain associated with diabetes.
Summary
Eating nutritiously and exercising are crucial components of any healthy lifestyle, but you don’t want to stop there when you live with diabetes. You need to prioritise your oral hygiene and foot care as well! You can ensure your overall health and well-being remain in tip-top shape by implementing the tips above. And you’ll be better prepared to face present challenges and maintain your health and happiness in the long term!
Aunty Lil’s Place offers the best gluten-free recipes around! Questions? Don’t hesitate to ask!