Dealing With Diabetes

Dealing With Diabetes

Dealing With Diabetes

The natural health researchers at Institute for Vibrant Living (IVL) have investigated the effects of diabetes on aging. Here is one in a series of reports:

It has been said that diabetes can age sufferers by an additional 20 years. For those who do not manage their diabetes, this is probably still true. Unfortunately, once you are diagnosed with diabetes, it will change your life forever.

It governs what you eat and how you live, but those who take the time to maximize the benefits available can stay as healthy and full of vitality as non-diabetics.

The Aging Effect

As we age we notice not only a few gray hairs, but also a decline in our entire body. Diabetes can exacerbate the aging process. For example, most people find their eyesight deteriorates with age, but those with diabetes are at increased risk of retinopathy, macular edema and cataracts.

Most of us may suffer some arthritis as we age, but diabetic nerve disease can complicate that arthritis, sometimes causing greater joint erosion in the feet, known as Charcot joint. However, there are some steps which those suffering with diabetes can take to counteract these effects so that they can continue to enjoy healthy aging.

Watch Your Numbers

The single most important thing for those suffering with diabetes is to maintain good overall health by controlling blood glucose levels. Lowering high blood pressure naturally and controlling blood lipid levels by watching your weight and eating healthily are extra-important if you have diabetes.

Stay Active

Your days of running a marathon may be over, but swimming, cycling and dancing are still possible and can enhance your social life as you meet new people with similar interests. Join a yoga class to increase flexibility or enroll in a fitness class suitable for your age and fitness level and increase energy naturally.

Eat Right

Follow your diabetes meal plan to maintain a healthy weight whilst improving your blood glucose control and blood lipid levels. A diet rich in plant-based foods helps reduce the risk of heart disease, so all the family can benefit if they also follow your new healthier eating plan.

Sleep Well

Lack of sleep leads to a lack of concentration and energy. For diabetics it can be even more serious as studies show that sleep deprivation can lead to insulin resistance which can make diabetes even more difficult to control.

Monitor Your Medication

For diabetics, it is important to know the side effects of any medications you may have been prescribed. Some drugs, either alone or combined with other drugs, can contribute to hypoglycemia. If you have side effects such as an inability to concentrate, you may need to have your doctor lower the dose or switch your medication.

Aging may be inevitable, but we all have control over how we age. For those with diabetes it is crucial to do everything possible to counter the effects of the disease in order to enjoy the best possible healthy aging.

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