Coronavirus pandemic: Tips for diabetics during the lockdown
The coronavirus pandemic is known to severely affect the elderly and people with co-morbidities like heart and lung disease and also diabetes. There is still no solid research on the link between the virus and diabetes. However, people with diabetes need to take special care of their health during this pandemic. The first and most important precaution is to practice strict social distancing and not leave the house unless completely necessary.
However, in a condition like that of diabetes, constant attention is required, the need for which has increased, given the current scenario. These are a few tips that all diabetics should follow to keep their blood sugar levels and health in check during the current coronavirus lockdown.
Monitor your sugar levels
This is the most obvious step, but also one of the most important. It is necessary that you keep a working and reliable blood glucose monitor at home and check blood sugar levels both fasting and after meals. The aim is to maintain your blood sugar levels at 110 mg/dl when fasting and 160 mg/dl after meals. A 10-20% increase in both the value is acceptable for diabetic elders. Maintaining diabetes can be beneficial for your immune system which helps you fight off infections.
Keep a stock of medicines
Even though all essential services are working despite the complete lockdown, it is advisable to keep a stock of all your medicines and essentials required to manage and control your diabetes. People who take insulin need to be extra careful to have a stock of their insulin at all times. Stock on all the essential anti-diabetic medicines, insulin, special pouches for the insulin and also medication for other complications like hypertension.
Don’t miss out on exercising
It is important for diabetic patients to find time for some physical activity during the day. It does not need to be something too strenuous, however a little amount of stretching and exercising is important for maintaining ideal blood sugar levels. Walking, stretching or yoga for 30 minutes every day is perfect for diabetics to help them maintain their health during the lockdown.
Avoid high-calorie snacks
It is best for patients to avoid foods that are rich in either carbohydrates or salts. Instead, stock up on vegetables and fruits like apples and oranges. You can also keep healthy snacks for the times when you feel hungry between meals.
Avoid panic
Stress and anxiety can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. It is important for you to not worry too much about catching the disease. However, this is also not the time to become complacent. It is necessary for you to follow all the precautionary guidelines laid down by medical professionals to save yourself from the infection and also stop it from spreading further. Wash your hands regularly and practice strict social distancing rules to save yourself during the current pandemic.
However, in a condition like that of diabetes, constant attention is required, the need for which has increased, given the current scenario. These are a few tips that all diabetics should follow to keep their blood sugar levels and health in check during the current coronavirus lockdown.
Monitor your sugar levels
This is the most obvious step, but also one of the most important. It is necessary that you keep a working and reliable blood glucose monitor at home and check blood sugar levels both fasting and after meals. The aim is to maintain your blood sugar levels at 110 mg/dl when fasting and 160 mg/dl after meals. A 10-20% increase in both the value is acceptable for diabetic elders. Maintaining diabetes can be beneficial for your immune system which helps you fight off infections.
Keep a stock of medicines
Even though all essential services are working despite the complete lockdown, it is advisable to keep a stock of all your medicines and essentials required to manage and control your diabetes. People who take insulin need to be extra careful to have a stock of their insulin at all times. Stock on all the essential anti-diabetic medicines, insulin, special pouches for the insulin and also medication for other complications like hypertension.
Don’t miss out on exercising
It is important for diabetic patients to find time for some physical activity during the day. It does not need to be something too strenuous, however a little amount of stretching and exercising is important for maintaining ideal blood sugar levels. Walking, stretching or yoga for 30 minutes every day is perfect for diabetics to help them maintain their health during the lockdown.
Avoid high-calorie snacks
It is best for patients to avoid foods that are rich in either carbohydrates or salts. Instead, stock up on vegetables and fruits like apples and oranges. You can also keep healthy snacks for the times when you feel hungry between meals.
Avoid panic
Stress and anxiety can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. It is important for you to not worry too much about catching the disease. However, this is also not the time to become complacent. It is necessary for you to follow all the precautionary guidelines laid down by medical professionals to save yourself from the infection and also stop it from spreading further. Wash your hands regularly and practice strict social distancing rules to save yourself during the current pandemic.
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