Diabetes Management: What You Need to Know to Manage Diabetes

Stick to a Healthy, Balanced Diet for Better Diabetes Management

A proper diet for a person with diabetes is one which promotes a healthy balanced diet rather than a diet for the sick. The total energy needs of the individual will be calculated at a level to achieve and/or maintain a desirable body weight. The proportion of energy from each of the major energy groups is such that:

• 50 to 60 percent of energy should be derived from carbohydrate.
• 25 to 30 percent from fat.
• 15 to 20 percent from protein (the protein intake may need to be reduced for patients with renal disease).

It is important that you do NOT delay or skip your meals or snacks (if snacks are allowed), which may lead to fluctuations in your blood sugar levels. If in doubt, you should seek medical nutrition therapy from a qualified dietitian who will tailor a meal plan to suit your lifestyle and medical condition.

Related: Diabetes: Diet and Lifestyle

Make Regular Physical Activity Part of Your Diabetes Management Routine

Regular exercise is an important part of diabetes control and should be part of your daily routine.

Here are the benefits of exercise or physical activity:

• helps insulin to work better and lower your blood glucose.
• lowers the blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation.
• reduces body fat and control body weight.

Related: Diabetes and Exercise: Tips for a Safe Workout

Select a Suitable Physical Activity and Start Exercising

The type of exercise or physical activity that is suitable for you depends on your age, physical fitness and preferences. You may need to consult your doctor or nurse educator when planning for an exercise programme.

Choose a physical activity that you would enjoy doing. Brisk walking, jogging and cycling are good examples. Exercise regularly, every day if you can, or at least three times a week and 30 minutes for each session. Plan your exercise programme, start slowly and gradually. Increase the amount of exercise you do at each session.

Read on for important points to remember when exercising and get tips on oral medication for diabetes.

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Read these next:

• Diabetes and Heart Disease
• Diabetes Management: Stay Healthy and Exercise!
• Diabetes Management: Weight, Diet, Exercise and Medicine
• Don't Lose Sleep over Type 2 Diabetes
• The Myths and Truths About A Diabetes Diet