One of the most common resolutions people with diabetes (or anyone) make during the new year is to lose weight, start dieting, and exercising. However, achieving these goals can be difficult and requires a lot of dedication.
But worry not, you can achieve your nutrition goals by setting realistic goals and changing your perspective. Our nutritionists here at our diabetes clinic in Boronia give you their top tips so you can make long-term health resolutions that your body will love.
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Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet
The simplest way to start eating healthy is by incorporating fruits and vegetables to your diet. Fruits and veggies are a great source of the essential fibers, vitamins, and minerals that your body needs to keep functioning optimally. Increasing your intake of fruits and veggies can lower your risk for health problems such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
If you’re not a big fan of fruits and leafy greens, you can try slowly introducing them to your diet. Our Boronia doctors recommend working towards at least 5 to 9 servings each day, and opting for fresh produce when possible.
Be body positive
Instead of obsessing over how much weight you should lose, start focusing on the reasons why losing weight would be beneficial to you. Ditch the negative thoughts about your body and turn them into positive commentary. Think your legs are too big? Try saying, “My legs allow me to complete this workout.” This will motivate you to start other good habits, such as choosing to exercise or eat the aforementioned veggies.
Find a nutritionist you can trust
Diabetes requires you to watch your diet closely, so seeing a health professional is a must. A registered nutritionist can recommend the right food plan and set the right health goals for you. At Melbourne Eastern Healthcare, we have a Diabetes Management Program that can help patients manage their condition. Our specialists will develop a custom meal plan that takes into account your preferences, dietary needs, and even your schedule.
If you don’t have a nutritionist yet, you can book a consultation by calling us at (03) 9839 3300. One of our diabetes specialists in Melbourne will be happy to see you!
Cook more meals at home
It’s tempting to have take-out meals, especially when you’re feeling lazy, but cooking meals yourself can help you stay aware of what you eat and keep you accountable for your nutrition goals. Plus, the extra satisfaction you get from cooking a great meal will drive you to eat healthier. To get started, organise a weekly meal plan and aim to cook at least 4 times a week.
Exercise regularly
Sticking to a long-term exercise routine is difficult at first, but exercise is a crucial part of managing diabetes and controlling blood sugar. Our diabetes specialists at our medical centre in Boronia recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Make things more fun by mixing up your routine every once in a while and add an activity you enjoy or haven’t tried before.
Always know your numbers
Being aware of your numbers makes tracking diabetes easier for you and your diabetes specialist. With the help of your specialist you can learn what your blood pressure, diabetes A1C, and cholesterol numbers are, and the appropriate levels you need to maintain for each.
Having an Hb1Ac (haemoglobin) reading can tell you how well your diabetes is controlled.
For an Hb1Ac reading, don’t hesitate to contact our Boronia clinic to consult with our in-house diabetes specialist.
Be kind to yourself
Living with diabetes can be difficult. At times, your blood sugar (and other numbers) could go up and negatively affect your motivation to keep going, but there’s no shame in this. Discussing your feelings with a partner, friend, or general practitioner can be cathartic and help you get on the right track again.
Should you need a heartfelt talk with a medical professional about your condition, a compassionate Boronia general practitioner in our centre is ready to listen. You may also get further information about diabetes management.
The year is just starting and it’s now the perfect time to adjust your habits and improve your health. With these tips in mind, you can establish realistic goals and work towards them every day. A little effort goes a long way and, by the end of the year, you’ll be surprised at how far you’ve come!
To schedule a consultation with a Boronia GP, nutritionist, or diabetes specialist, call us on (03) 9839 3333.