It is absolutely common to have smoking and alcohol consumption as a personal choice. However, one cannot deny the fact that essentially, they are unhealthy for the body and not a part of a healthy lifestyle. While small and measured quantities of alcohol are still permissible, smoking in any way does not provide any health benefit. In fact, health deteriorates because of tobacco consumption. Lifestyle changes for diabetes also include cutting down on smoking and alcohol consumption. The reason being, diabetes comes with the possibility of numerous other health issues, such as stroke, kidney issues, nerve damage, heart disease, diabetic foot problems and more–all of which can be aggravated by smoking and drinking. If possible, the best way would be to give up entirely.
However, if you are a compulsive smoker or a heavy drinker, doing that would entail withdrawal symptoms which too are extremely harmful and may also result in numerous unresolved mental health issues. This can even worsen your health. Thus, the best way would be to seek professional help. Consult your doctor as to how you can quit these vices over a period of time with less to no sudden impact on your health.
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Change 3: Be Consistent with your Check-ups
It is extremely important to take your health seriously, especially as a diabetes patient. One of the most important lifestyle changes for diabetes is routine visits to the doctor for various reasons. This doesn’t necessarily indicate that you have a serious condition but is required for the maintenance of your health. It is recommended that you visit your doctor at least thrice a year. However, you can choose your frequency as per the discussion between you and your doctor. Whatever it turns out to be, remember that at the end of it all, diabetes is a medical condition and requires expert intervention and advice from time to time. It is extremely important to include that in your lifestyle and implement that visit regularly and stay disciplined.
Change 4: Healthy Eating
This is perhaps one of the most important lifestyle changes for diabetes. If you love to indulge in non-veg food, you may choose lean meat and non-fat dairy products. Also include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits in your diet, and reduce your carb consumption.
Here are some of the foods that can be a part of your new and healthy lifestyle changes for Type 2 diabetes:
1) Greens
Include lots of greens in your diet as they are full of micronutrients. One can experiment beyond the usual. Try spinach, kale, amaranth, chard, and more. You can even try roasted kale chips which are easy to make and high on taste.