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Diabetes is a fast growing disease in India with more than 62 million diabetic individuals currently diagnosed with the disease. Nearly 44 lakh Indians aren’t aware that they are diabetic, a disease that exposes them to heart attack, stroke, amputations, nerve damage, blindness and kidney disease. According to a study there will be almost 100 million diabetics by 2030.
Almost every organ in the body can be adversely affected with the onset of diabetes. But with timely intervention and care, the disease can be kept under control. Dealing with diabetes involves eating well, exercising regularly, keeping track of blood sugar and sticking to medications. It also requires the mental aptitude to accept and deal with the disease in a calm and positive way. With some planning ahead, it is easier to keep your blood sugar under control than preventing diabetes-related complications in the future.
According to an article, it is an emotional experience for people diagnosed with diabetes and can stir up intricate feelings in them. Some people refute their illness or are infuriated. Others become depressed, feel guilt and shame, or are fearful about the future.
“All of these are common emotional reactions. Diabetes can often bring with it a normal grief reaction. But the stages and intensity will differ from person to person, depending on life experiences,” says John Zrebiec, associate director of mental health services at the Joslin Diabetes Center. ”
Here are few essential tips on coping with diabetes:
Research and make a plan: Start researching on what is needed in order to be a healthier person and write it down. For example, if you face difficulties in keeping your blood sugar levels in check, make an appointment with a dietitian or diabetes specialist who will guide you with your diet. If you are overweight or sedentary, it is essential to restrict fatty and non-healthy food and cut down on portion sizes. The fitness mantra is to eat healthy and exercise regularly.
Commitment towards your goals: Controlling diabetes requires a lot of dedication. It is good to take out 45 minutes a day from your schedule to exercise. Being organized will give you a feeling of control over the disease and empowers you to stick to your goals.
Choose your doctors well: As diabetes can affect various parts of the body, it requires you to be in touch with many specialists. In addition to your family physician, you may need visits to the ophthalmologist, dietitian, endocrinologist, podiatrist and cardiologist, based on the seriousness of your condition.
Educate yourself: Educating yourself on how your body works and what you can do to put less strain on it can work wonders for your condition. Make sure to evaluate the benefits you reap from new changes you make so that you can adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
Ask for support: Share your feelings with close friends and family so that they understand what you are going through and can lend support when you are feeling down or hit a rough patch. They can encourage you and help you to stay on track.
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