DIABETES, DIET AND EXECISE
In truth, a diet aimed at reducing the risks of diabetes is really nothing more than a nutritionally-balanced meal plan aimed at supporting and maintaining blood sugar levels within range and also supporting a healthy weight.
If you have diabetes, it is important to eat every 4 to 6 hours to keep your blood sugar levels stable. Try to have three daily meals at regular times and have healthy snacks when you are feeling hungry. A balanced meal has foods from at least 3 of the 4 food groups:
•Vegetables and Fruits
•Grain Products
•Milk and Alternatives
•Meat and Alternatives
You can work with a Registered Dietitian or your doctor to make a personal meal plan.
For those with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, the main focus of a diabetes--focused diet is being attentive to your weight. With that said, a diabetic diet is simply an approach eating that works to keeps you healthy, and so is not reserved only for people who are diabetic. Your whole family can enjoy the same meals and snacks, regardless of whether others have diabetes or not. Exercise or simply being active encourages the body tissues to take up glucose from the blood. It helps control weight, lower blood pressure, lower harmful LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, raise healthy HDL cholesterol, strengthen muscles and bones, reduce anxiety, and improve your general well-being. There are added benefits for people with diabetes: exercise lowers blood glucose levels and boosts your body's sensitivity to insulin, countering insulin resistance.
All forms of exercise—aerobic, resistance, or doing both (combined training)— are equally good at lowering your blood sugar level.
Physical activity also helps control blood sugar levels and lowers your risk of heart disease and nerve damage.
Being physically active can be fun. When it’s possible, go outside with a friend, connect, and enjoy the weather.
Some additional benefits include:
•Maintaining a healthy weight
•Losing weight, if needed
•Feeling happier
•Sleeping better
•Reduce depression/improves Mood
•Improving your memory
•Controlling your blood pressure
•Lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol.