Whether managing type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you have enough on your mind without having to think about your sweetener. SweetLeaf Stevia® Sweetener does not impact blood sugar at all, so you can use it in food and beverages without having to count carbs.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 26 million Americans have diabetes. While each case is different, here are some general guidelines and resources that can be helpful:
- Educate yourself. Learn everything you can about diabetes from trustworthy sources, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) and the National Institutes of Health (www.nih.gov). Arming yourself with reliable information can help you manage your diabetes and better communicate with your health-care professional.
- See your health-care professional regularly. There is no substitute for an examination by a doctor who is trained to recognize and diagnose health problems in the early stages when you are most likely to respond to treatment. This also includes regular eye exams and dental appointments. Early detection can give you the upper hand in controlling your diabetes.
- Exercise. Make an appointment with yourself to spend at least 30 minutes each day being physically active. Remember, exercise doesn’t need to be strenuous to be effective. Whether walking, bicycling, running, swimming, stretching or weight training, consistency is the most important factor. If you find your exercise schedule to be sporadic, find a friend to work out with so you can keep each other motivated and celebrate your successes together!
- Eat right. Healthy eating plays an important role in managing your diabetes. Many processed foods contain added sugars and are high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol and salt (sodium). Your health-care professional will help you design a meal plan that includes lots of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and limits sugar, carbohydrates, fats and alcohols.
