1
WALK IT OFF
Everybody gives in to temptation once in a while—the homemade biscuits, the mashed potatoes, the strawberry shortcake you just can’t turn away. But that can make blood sugar rise too high later. While it’s not a magic eraser, going for an after-meal stroll works wonders for the body. In one recent study, walking after eating controlled blood sugar better than hitting the pavement before the dinner bell rang.
TIP: If foot problems make walking difficult, invest in an inexpensive “pedaler”—a set of bike pedals on a frame that you use while sitting in a chair.
2
TALK IT OUT
Do a brief daily check-in with an online diabetes support group, or just post a comment or observation on a diabetes message board. It really can help you stay on track, blow off steam, and get much-needed encouragement from the real experts—people just like you who live with blood-sugar control challenges every day. Plus, you get the chance to reach out to someone else and share your own tips and experiences. The American Diabetes Association, the Joslin Diabetes Center, and the website Patients Like Me all host online groups.
TIP: Load your smart phone with apps that help you track your blood sugar and remind you to take medications on time.
3
LAUGH IT UP
Deciding between a silly comedy and an action flick for movie night? Go funny. Laughter helps your body process blood sugar more efficiently and relaxes your arteries. Indulging regularly even protects against heart attacks—good news for people with diabetes whose tickers are at higher risk for trouble.