Diabetics should be careful in all weathers. Especially winter can be said to be a challenging season for diabetics. Winter festivals and celebrations can also add to the problems. Blood sugar levels are naturally higher during winter season. Cold temperatures stress the body.
This naturally reduces insulin production. And during this season, the release of stress hormones is also high, and blood sugar levels may also increase, senior diabetes specialist and specialist. Also, he shares what problems diabetics face in winter and how to avoid them.
Another problem with seasonal change is that winter is when infections are most active. There is a risk of increasing fever during this period. During this winter season alone we can see the flu epidemic between December and February more than any other season. In this case stress hormone is highly stimulated against infection.
These also increase blood sugar levels in the body. Although diabetics follow many rules during winters with restriction of diet and physical activity, change in both makes it challenging to follow. High-calorie foods served at public feasts of celebrations also raise blood sugar levels. Also in winter the weather is dry and the air is dry with no moisture. This makes our skin look dry. Dry skin can cause breakouts. This increases the risk of infections when the skin is not properly cared for.
Diabetic patients should be aware and have special planning to keep blood sugar under control during winters. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is very important. Avoid excessive exposure to cold temperatures and get vaccines against the flu annually. Check the skin and feet daily for any problems or infections.
You should also know about the test methods for that. Focus on incorporating healthy physical activity into daily routines. Similarly, diabetics should not avoid holiday celebrations. But during heavy feasts one should pay attention to the diet. By planning healthy habits, diet etc. properly you can get through this winter without any harm. How to prevent winter complications? What can be done to manage diabetes?
People with diabetes should plan ahead to manage and prevent winter complications. We have seen that cold temperatures and changes in routine can have a significant impact on blood sugar levels. In fact, diabetics may not face these problems in non-winter tropical countries. But if you live in a cold climate, these healthy tips will definitely help you keep your diabetes under control. Monitor your blood sugar regularly Check your blood sugar levels frequently.
Check blood sugar levels immediately when feeling unwell or symptoms experiencing of low blood sugar. Testing blood sugar levels when hands are cold can be challenging. However, warm your hands thoroughly before testing. The temperature can be checked rubbing by the hands well and bringing them to a warm state.
Keep the body warm
Cold weather can make the body stiff. Hold tight. Then the body should be shielded to reduce the cold. Lying under a comfortable heavy blanket can raise body temperature. Although exercise is essential, being active indoors does not increase coldness. Drinking hot tea or coffee (without sugar) can help maintain body temperature.
Vaccination is essential
Doctors recommend annual flu shots for people with diabetes. Fever can increase the release of stress hormones. This increases the blood sugar level. Getting vaccination can prevent the flu. Fever does not become serious.
Skin and foot care
Dry air and indoor heat during the winter months can lead to dry skin and cracked skin. Be careful to keep the skin moisturized. Take care of your skin daily, especially your feet. If you notice any signs of skin problems on your feet, immediately consult a doctor and get proper examination done.
Physical exercise is essential
It is emphasized that diabetic patients should exercise. So don’t skip physical activity in winter. Cold weather may make it difficult for you to go outside. However, you can do simple exercises at home with your family. Yoga is a great exercise for both mind and body.
Focus on diet
It can be said that diabetic patients need to be more careful than usual in their diet. Holiday celebrations and parties can have high-calorie foods. These can disrupt regular meal plans. In this case, don’t skip going to the party. But it is important to reduce carbohydrate intake while consuming sweet foods.
Insulin and diabetes equipment safety
Insulin and equipment used by diabetics should be protected from cold temperatures. Even if insulin is frozen and used after it has thawed, its effectiveness may not be consistent. Insulin requires learning to store properly from freezing periods. If diabetics are using insulin, it is safe to consult a medical professional to manage it properly in winters.