Blood sugar levels fluctuate during the winter season and this can be especially worrying for diabetics. Dr Ashok Jhingan, Senior Director, BLK-Max Center for Diabetes, Thyroid, Obesity and Endocrinology, explains that just as high temperatures can change the way your body uses insulin, the winter season brings with it one of its own challenges for diabetics. Presents the set. “Extreme cold not only affects your glucose levels, but it can also lead to false readings. Diabetes management also depends a lot on lifestyle changes. Winters make us slow, lethargic and less active which in turn can lead to high blood sugar levels.” The level can go up. Add to this all the calorie-laden winter comfort food and your sugar levels can get really bad,” shares Dr Jhingan.
Dr Ashok Jhingan is sharing some tips to control blood sugar levels during the winter months – follow these and keep the winter blues at bay!
warm your body
Physical activities like exercise lower blood sugar levels, help the body use insulin better, keep you warm, and can even improve your mood. If it’s too cold to go outside, you can try indoor exercises like riding a stationary bicycle.
take care of overall health
When you’re sick, it’s more difficult to control your diabetes. If you get a cold, virus or flu and you develop ketones, make sure you follow the rules for your sick days. If ketones persist, contact your doctor.
How diabetics can stay healthy in winter
- be sure to get your flu shot
- get 7-8 hours of sleep at night
- wash your hands frequently
- If you get sick, stay home
- eat well
- When you go out to a party, wear cool clothes to avoid the cold
- If you consume alcohol, never take it on an empty stomach and always eat proper food.
- Remember to count the carbs for all the food you eat.
- Keep yourself well hydrated in winter
- Do not skip the dose of medicines
- Get the Right Dose of Your Insulin for What You Eat
- Stews and soups with lots of tasty vegetables can help keep you warm and are often healthier options.
- Maintain balance if you want to enjoy sweets