A recent study of Nature magazine demonstrates that during the winter the number of hospitalizations increases due to this disease.Staying healthy at this time covers much more than controlling glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.Here are some suggestions.
Keep your medications away from very low temperatures.If you carry insulin in a bottle, pump or autoinjectors, you are not going to freeze.Insulin must be maintained between 36 degrees and 46 degrees Fahrenheit while not being used.
The American Diabetes Association recommends: “Do not keep your insulin near the extreme cold.Neither do you keep it in the car glovener. ”In case you suspect that insulin is not in good condition you do not use it and return it to the pharmacy to exchange it or ask for a refund.
The American Diabetes Association warns that handling blood sugar levels is more difficult when you have a cold.One of the simplest ways to avoid falling ill is frequently washed with soap and water.Also keep hot using layers, covering your head and putting gloves and scarf.
Low temperatures can exacerbate the loss of sensitivity, so it is necessary that the status of your feet, a very delicate area for diabetics.Wear adequate shoes and boots for snow and apply moisturizer regularly to maintain healthy skin.If you notice any injury that does not cure, look for medical attention immediately.Do not wait.
Having cold hands can alter the measurement of your glucose levels and make it difficult for you to get the drops of blood.Use gloves when you are outdoors and wash your hands with warm water when you are inside to heat your hands before taking out a sample.
Do not stop practicing your exercise routines.According to a study by George Washington University School of Public Health, 15 minutes of walk after each meal is more efficient than a single walk 45 minutes a day to reduce blood glucose levels.If it costs you too much to go out for the cold, try to do at home with DVDs or cellular applications, resistance bands and small weights.
Try to constantly hydrate.Do not forget even if the cold does not give you thirst.When you don't drink enough water you have a greater concentration of blood sugar."The kidneys do not work so efficiently to clean the excess glucose in the urine," explains Lori Roust, MD, an endocrinologist of Mayo Clinic in Arizona.In addition to water, try to consume only sugarless drinks.
"People with diabetes should use hot compresses and electric blankets with caution and people with diabetic neuropathy (with nerve damage) should never use them," explains doctor Nicolas B. Argento, in Diabetic Living Magazine.This is because people with this condition can develop a decrease in sensitivity and even a sensation of total numbness in the limbs, so they may take to notice a burn or not detect it at all."If you have to heat the bedding, turn on the electric blanket before bedtime and apáguela before entering the bed," he adds.Although it is best to depend on the central heating of your home.
Be careful with sweet drinks.Winter is the season in which it causes more drinks such as hot chocolate, which can significantly affect blood sugar levels.Try to replace them as much as possible with tea or other healthier options.It also controls alcohol intake.
Take with you glucose meters.Do the test frequently to know if you have to adjust your insulin or your diet after some excess.
Rest.According to a study by the Sleep Foundation, the people who sleep between 7 and 8 hours in a deeper way, get less ill and better control their sugar.For this to happen it is best to avoid heavy meals, caffeine and alcohol before sleeping, and try to do it in a comfortable, fresh, dark and silent room.He also tries to expose yourself to the sun frequently.Recent research suggests that those with type 2 diabetes who have high levels of vitamin D in the blood, tend to have better disease control.And those who do not have higher risks of suffering from nerves, kidney and complications of the view.Salmon, tuna, egg yolk and live liver are good sources of vitamin D.
Do not neglect the diet.We tend to consume more calories, carbohydrates and fat in the cold months, but that is very dangerous.Plan with time and have a control of what you eat.Have substitutes as sugarless jelly.Even small weight increases make diabetes more difficult.
Before any decay, do not wait for the weather to improve and go to your doctor.