Managing Diabetes In Male Patients
Who doesn't know about diabetes? No one, that's who! Diabetes is a very, very common illness, and it means the body has problems with insulin and blood sugar. This is why men need to check their blood sugar all the time if they have diabetes. They're going to need a blood sugar meter for this! Many, many men will need insulin resistance medication and an insulin pump. But with these weapons, living with diabetes is possible! Let's learn all about that.
Check Blood Sugar Regularly
The goal of the game with diabetes is clear: control over blood sugar. Men, you're going to need a blood sugar test kit. The good news is that using them is simple. All you need is a drop of blood on a blood sugar testing strip. This strip needs to go into the glucose meter, and it spits a reading back! Other testing kits just need a prick of the finger.
Many, many men with type 1 diabetes will test up to 10 times in a single day. There's also type 2 to consider, though. These men will need at least a daily test. But if they're taking insulin or medication? A few more tests may be necessary. Men, your doctor will work out a schedule with you. Be sure to listen!
Control Blood Pressure
Heart disease is a serious concern for men with diabetes. So it's clear, then. Men, you're going to need to control your blood pressure. Keep it low! Limit your salt and lose any extra weight. Practice stress relief whenever and wherever you can! Caffeine is a big reason for higher blood pressure, so many, many men will have to drink less coffee during the day.
Food also plays a huge, huge role, so it's important for men to not forget about what they eat. This means less processed food. Focusing on fresh produce and whole grains is a much better choice! Of course, some men will need to turn to blood pressure medication.
Follow The Right Diet
Men, you can naturally manage your blood sugar with the right diet. What does this mean? Well, you won't need to rely on medications and insulin injections as much, that's what! Men with diabetes need lots of fruits and vegetables. Complex carbs are winning here too! They keep men fuller for longer. Men, you'll find them in whole wheat bread and brown rice, among others. Vegetables and some fruits, like avocados, are the healthy fats you're going to need. They'll keep your cholesterol managed!
What don't men with diabetes want? Refined sugar, processed food, and saturated fat. They're no good. Write in a food diary and take blood sugar readings before and after you eat. You'll see how food affects you this way!
Exercise Regularly
Exercise, exercise, and yes, more exercise. Men, this keeps you at a low risk of heart disease and, guess what? It also gives you more and more control over your blood sugar and blood pressure. More natural control means less medication! Amazing, absolutely amazing! Being active makes your body much, much more responsive to insulin. This is a good thing for men with diabetes!
Exercising for at least 150 minutes every week is a good start, but men, you're going to need more! Try brisk walking, running, and lifting weights. Swimming and yoga help a lot too, so don't forget about them! Find something that works for you and go for it.
Take Medication
Diet and exercise help a lot with diabetes. Everyone knows that! But men, huge numbers of you are still going to need to take medication. Yes, at least some! Many, many oral meds will help with blood sugar control. Insulin injections are also very common. But the meds you're told to take, men, doesn't matter.
No matter what, following your doctor's directions is the best, the absolute best thing for you to do. It's vital. Why? Because if you're given meds, it means you need them. Natural options aren't enough! So talk to your doctor and figure out what meds are the best. The method of delivery is key too. Remember insulin injections? An insulin pump is available as an alternative!