Everyday ways to help manage diabetes There are everyday things you can do to help manage your glucose levels. Healthy eating: Have plenty of bush tucker, shop foods and home-cooked meals that are low in fat, sugar and salt. The portion size of our meals and snacks is important too. If we think about the foods we ate before time, we are on the right track to healthy eating. Have something from each of the main food groups every day. Get a balance of fruit, dairy, meat, grains and vegetables. They give you energy, fight sickness and help care for your body to keep it strong. Drink plenty of water. Eat less fat, as it can affect your weight and give you problems with your heart. Eat meat with no fat or only small bits of fat on it. Cut the fat off the meat and take the skin off chicken. Drain the juices (fat) after cooking meat and scoop out the fat from the top of stews. Avoid cooking with or having fats like butter, oil, margarine or dripping. It is better to boil, steam, stew, grill, microwave or stir-fry food. Be active: Walk, play sport, hunt, garden. It helps your insulin to work properly. Be active for 30 minutes or more every day OR do 10 minutes of physical activity three times a day. Healthy eating and staying active can help you keep a healthy weight. Taking and looking after your medicines Most people living with diabetes will need to start taking medicine to help keep their glucose levels in a healthy range. Take your medicines at the times your doctor told you. It might help to use a medicine box to keep track of your medicines. Get some more medicine before your supply is close to finishing, so you do not run out. Take your medicines with you when you go to see family, walkabout or are away from home. Put your medicines somewhere cool, dry and safe so they will not go bad. Keep your medicines out of reach of kids. When to see your health professionals Have check-ups with your doctor, health worker or nurse. Have regular health checks for your eyes, feet, kidneys, blood pressure, skin and teeth. If you notice anything different about your body, talk to your doctor, health worker or nurse. If your doctor says you need to check your glucose levels, check them at the times your doctor, health worker or nurse tells you. See your doctor, health worker or nurse straight away if you feel sick. Check your feet and skin for sores and/or cracks every day. Diabetes yarning: all about diabetes Disclaimer The information here is meant to be helpful as a general guide. It’s not a substitute for medical advice, so be sure to talk to your health professional about your medical needs and questions.
