If you were recently diagnosed with diabetes, you might wonder what you can do to control the condition and avoid uncomfortable symptoms. The right medical supplies — like blood glucose monitors, lancets, and test strips — will help you keep track of your health, but adopting a few lifestyle changes can ensure you feel your best. Learn how to keep blood sugar levels in check with the following tips. 

How to Handle Diabetes Symptoms

1. Manage Stress 

High stress levels can take a toll mentally and physically. Managing stress will help you control your blood sugar levels and avoid discomfort. If you work in a high-stress environment, find healthy ways to cope.

For example, talking to a trusted coworker at the end of every workday will help you vent and let go. Planning mid-week dinners with your closest friends will provide much-needed breaks from the responsibilities of the week. Meditating, journaling, and listening to music are other ideal ways to manage stress and keep blood sugar levels to a minimum. 

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

Whether you have diabetes or prediabetes, a healthy diet will help you control blood sugar levels and manage your weight. Minimizing calories, sugar, salt, and trans and saturated fats will prevent the body from producing too much glucose. However, it's still important to eat three meals per day to ensure you use the body's insulin effectively. 

When grocery shopping, buy plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you need some protein, fish is a good choice. Mackerel, salmon, tuna, and halibut contain omega-3 fatty acids that protect the heart. Avoid processed foods and snacks, like hot dogs, sausages, baked goods, and chips. 

3. Stay Active 

Regular exercise will keep your heart strong, keep your weight within a healthy range, and avoid diabetes-related complications. If you aren't very active, start with small goals, like walking around the neighborhood or trying a new yoga class at the gym. 

Cardio is the best exercise to pursue, as it burns extra glucose and prevents insulin insensitivity. Jogging, swimming, and biking are good forms of cardio that are easy to incorporate into a daily routine. However, keep track of your feet, as diabetes can affect the nerves and cause calluses, blisters, and ulcers to form. 

Before starting a new exercise routine, always consult a health care professional. They'll give you tips on how to perform activities safely and with your diabetes symptoms in mind. 

If you need sugar-free medicine, compression socks, lancets, and other medical supplies to manage diabetes, reach out to Bernens Medical & Pharmacy in Cincinnati, OH. This business provides patients with a variety of medical supplies, services, and equipment to help them handle symptoms and enjoy healthy lives. Learn more about their products online, or call (513) 471-7575 to speak with a friendly professional about your health needs.