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Archive for the ‘Diabetes’ Category

High blood pressure is a concern for anyone but people with diabetics are more likely to suffer from it than others.  If you are obese and diabetic, a high blood pressure can be deadly leading to a fatal heart attack.  Like many health risks associated with diabetes, good control of your blood sugars, a healthy diet and physical activity can help to keep
your blood pressure in check.

If you are suffering from a headache, your vision is blurry and you feel light headed or dizzy you may have high blood pressure.  These symptoms are not just indicative of high blood pressure though and you should seek medical attention to determine the cause.  Other times there may be no symptoms at all when you have high blood pressure or it may be slightly elevated.  It is smart to have your blood pressure routinely checked at your doctor’s appointments.

When you are obese, the most effective way to reduce your blood pressure is to lose weight.  Follow a meal plan that works for your diabetes, making sure you are consuming enough food, and can still allow you to lose weight.  Other changes that you can make that will improve your blood pressure are:

*    An exercise routine that is followed on a regular basis
*    Reducing stress in your life – mediation, yoga, letting go of some responsibilities
*    Quit smoking
*    Lessen the amount of salt you use for cooking or on your food

While you are making lifestyle changes to lower your blood pressure your doctor may decide to put your on medication.  If you have to take blood pressure medication it does not have to be forever.  You can look at it as a short-term fix while you make the changes necessary to lower your blood pressure on your own.

As a diabetic who is trying to lose weight, it is not only important what you eat and how much but what you eat together too.  Foods react differently together and for optimal performance and the best affect on your blood glucose level there are a few guidelines that should be followed.

At each meal you should have a combination of carbohydrates and protein and you can have fat in moderation.  The majority of the foods a diabetic will eat fall under the carbohydrate category, carbohydrates can be found in:

*    Fruits
*    Vegetables
*    Beans
*    Dairy Products
*    Bread
*    Grains

To reduce blood sugars and lose weight, a diet where carbohydrates are counted and controlled is necessary.  Depending on your weight and height your dietician will provide you with a number of carbohydrates that you can have at each meal.  Some carbohydrates are better choices than others; choose fresh and whole wheat whenever possible.

Choosing carbohydrates that are high in fiber can help to reduce your blood glucose levels and will keep you feeling full for longer.  Higher fiber content allows you to eat more an item without suffering the consequences later on.

At each meal, a small amount of protein will help counter-act the carbohydrate’s affect of raising blood sugars.  Protein will also sustain you longer and you will not be hungry as quickly if you did not have protein at one of your meals or for snack.  Choose high-quality protein that is not fried.  Remove excess fat when it is possible such as chicken
skin before eating.

Following a healthy eating plan with the correct number of carbohydrates at each meal combine with a protein can help you lose weight and manage your diabetes.  Make time for exercising in your week too and you are sure to lose weight and have more energy.