Keeping Your Blood Sugars in Check this November
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. As busy professionals, it is easy to slip into unhealthy habits which can raise your likelihood of becoming diabetic. Here are some tips on how to keep yourself healthy and your blood sugars low during these uncertain times.
Lean into your seasonal cravings.
Certain foods are shown in studies to lower your blood sugars including:
- Pumpkin and pumpkin seeds
- Apples
- Cinnamon
- Sweet potatoes and yams
- Oatmeal
- Okra
- Kale
Add a little sunshine to your life.
As the days grow shorter, it’s harder for most of us in the country to get enough Vitamin D. Consider an over the counter supplement, purchasing a sun lamp, or adding foods high in vitamin D like salmon and mushrooms to your grocery list.
Make time to make food.
Living in a global pandemic has seriously affected how we approach every day and the flow we were used to. It’s easy to forget to eat or grab a less than healthy snack. As the season changes, now is a good time to start or restart healthy habits. By making time to make food, not only are you minimizing your consumption of processed foods and unnecessary sugar, but you are also allowing yourself to reduce your stress levels.
Take time to smell the roses.
Or a walk to check out the leaves changing color, whatever it takes for you to get a little more active this month. Some studies show that dancing is more effective than walking in lowering blood sugar levels so maybe add a little dancing after your dinner. Need accountability? Consider the November Project – a free fitness program in 52 locations worldwide. Aim for 20 minutes 3 times a week and add more time each week.
Drink water.
We know we should. We always intend to. This is your reminder that if you do nothing else this month, drink more water and watch your body thank you for it in a ton of different ways.
Daylight Savings to the Rescue?
Take advantage of that “extra” hour each morning to get more sleep. Not only does a lack of sleep raise your blood sugars, but it also takes more energy to get through your day. Most of us reach for that energy increase in a sugary, processed form. It’s easier to say no when you’ve gotten enough rest. It’s also harder to sleep when you have low blood sugar. Interrupt the cycle by working on your sleep hygiene this month.
Its okay to cheat sometimes.
Here’s a cheat. These recipes can be made ahead and include vitamin D rich foods that lower blood sugar levels and will break that habit of skipping breakfast.
MarketingMichelle 