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Diabetic Resolutions to Start 2018 off Right

Lisa Feierstein Children's Health, Diabetes, Men's Health, Women's Health Leave a comment   , , , ,

ShutterstockThe New Year is right around the corner. This is a time for reflection and planning. Have you thought about what you would like to change in the coming year? Many people resolve to get more exercise, eat healthy, lose weight, spend more time with family and friends, etc. at the beginning of a new year. Diabetics usually are a little more specific with their resolutions. Here are some ways to start the year in optimal health.

Check in With Your Doctor

  • If you aren’t already, make sure to see your doctor two to four times this year
  • Review and continue to follow your testing schedule, tweaking if necessary
  • Make note of your most recent A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers
  • Start or review your meal plan with your diabetes educator, tweaking if necessary
  • Don’t forget to get a renal function and microalbumin test

 

Get Moving!

  •  Ramp up physical activity.  Remember something is better than nothing at all.
  • Take your medications exactly as they are prescribed

 

Care for Your Whole Body

  • Get an annual eye exam
  • Go to the dentist twice per year
  • Examine your feet for cuts and/or sores daily
  • Brush and floss daily
  • Get your flu shot

 

Don’t Bottle Up Stress! Deal With It Right Away Using One of These Techniques

  • Deep breathing
  • Learning to say no
  • Asking for help when you need it
  • Making time for you
  • Getting enough sleep (7-8 hours is ideal)
  • Exercising (with other people if that motivates you)
  • Seeing a counselor or social worker if none of the above approaches are effective

 

Although this is a long and possibly daunting list, it is realistic and doable.  With the help of your doctor, you can get 2018 started off on the right foot.  Share your resolutions with someone to hold yourself accountable.


Budget Your Calories for a Bountiful Thanksgiving

Lisa Feierstein Children's Health, Diabetes, Men's Health, Women's Health Leave a comment   , , , ,

budget your caloriesThe year has flown by and Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away. For many, this holiday means overindulgence. For diabetics, it can be a very difficult time for many reasons. The hardest is resisting temptations. Who doesn’t love seconds or even thirds of their favorite dishes; i.e., mashed potatoes? An important thing to remember is “everything in moderation.” Here are a few tips to budget your calories and manage your blood sugar while still enjoying this wonderful time with family.

Stay on Schedule – Never Miss a Meal or Dose of Insulin

Set reminders on your smartphone for:

  • Meals and snacks to avoid a blood sugar dip
  • Blood sugar testing
  • Insulin doses

 

Budget Your Calories: Indulge in Sweets and Treats in Moderation

You can indulge in a few treats, but make sure to budget for those calories. Work treats into your existing carbohydrate budget instead of adding to it. Stick with proteins, vegetables and salad at dinner. Pick your favorite carb or treat and enjoy it with your calorie budget for the day.

Enjoy Alcohol in Moderation

Never drink on an empty stomach, as this lowers your blood sugar. Research nutrition information in advance for your favorite libations to make good choices. It is recommended that women with diabetes have no more than one drink per day and no more than two per day for men. The serving sizes vary depending on the type of drink.

One serving is:

  • 4 ounces of wine
  • 12 ounces of beer
  • 1 ounce of distilled spirits

 

Download Mobile Apps

Look for apps that help you count carbs for your favorite dishes, as well as how much insulin you need to take before meals.

Look for Lighter Menu Options When Eating Out

Choose dishes with less saturated fat, limit fried foods and sugars. Ask about substitutions. Most restaurants can accommodate your requests. Swap out butter with olive oil. Enjoy a baked or boiled potato in lieu of mashed potatoes or French fries.

If Asked to Bring a Dish, Cook a Light and Healthy One

This can put you at ease knowing that you can enjoy what you’ve prepared and takes out the guesswork of whether or not it is within your calorie budget.

Tips for Holiday Parties

Scan the table and look for vegetable-based options first, followed by meat or cheese. Use a napkin instead of a plate to keep your portions in check. Don’t socialize in front of the food table. Stay hydrated. Keeping water or a club soda in hand will also keep you and your hands full so you are less likely to overindulge.

Stay Active

Make it a priority to stick with your regular fitness routine while you are away from home. The holidays are generally the busiest time of the year for many people. You can break up your activity into 10-15 minute segments if it is not possible to get 30 minutes all at once.

Remember that there is a lot more to Thanksgiving and the holiday season than food. Focus on spending quality time with family and friends. Enjoy what you do eat and relax.


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