Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome that is caused when there is little or no insulin production in the body. Insulin regulates blood glucose levels; with less insulin, the level of blood glucose rises, leading to a lot of health issues over time. Though diabetes cannot be fully cured with medicine, it can be controlled and managed with the right practices. Here are some easy and useful dietary and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes.

Cut down on refined sugar
This is one of the most important dietary and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes. A teaspoon of white sugar is around four grams and this directly increases the blood sugar levels when consumed. All the junk food and beverages you enjoy eating have excess quantities of white sugar, which is harmful to the body. Check the nutritional value of the food you eat and avoid those enriched with processed or refined sugars.

Reduce carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are nutrients that increase blood sugar levels. People without diabetes will also benefit by cutting down on their carbohydrate intake. Refined flours, pizzas, burgers, white rice, bread, and all types of packaged snacks are rich sources of carbohydrates and need to be avoided. This dietary and lifestyle change to manage diabetes will also help with healthy weight loss.

Concentrate on portion sizes
Portion size is key when you have diabetes. You can plan to have five to six small meals a day instead of eating three large meals. When you eat large meals, the blood sugar levels increase. So, start cutting down your portion size and eat only until you are almost full. You can then have your next meal in a couple of hours as a snack or as a beverage.

Follow an exercise schedule
Exercise is essential to reducing body weight and to limit excess blood sugar in the body. As you burn more calories by working out, your body will utilize the excess glucose in the blood for energy. This dietary and lifestyle change to manage diabetes will also help you stay healthy and fit always. People with diabetes can feel easily tired, and this can be prevented by regularly working out.

Intake naturally sourced foods
Pick up different colored vegetables from your local vendor and eat them fresh raw or cooked. Choose fruits that have a low glycemic index (GI and add salads to most meals. By picking natural foods over frozen and packaged foods, the blood sugar levels will drop gradually.

Diabetes is not a life-threatening condition if you learn to handle it well. Consult your doctor, create an action plan that includes diet and exercise, and keep a regular check on your blood sugar levels. These dietary and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes will keep you fit and healthy in the long run.