Diabetes mellitus and stress go hand in hand - here's how to manage both

There's a definitive relationship between diabetes mellitus and stress. If you have the blood sugar disease, when stress becomes too much it can affect your physical, emotional and mental well-being, as well as your health.

It doesn't matter what you're stressing over - finances, work, family or coping with a recent diabetes mellitus diagnosis. When your mind is elsewhere, you might drink more alcohol and exercise less, or forget to check your blood sugar levels and administer insulin shots, according to the American Diabetes Association.

What's more, chronic stress can also produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, both of which are tied to elevated blood glucose levels. On that note, we're sharing our top tips to manage both diabetes mellitus and stress.

Top tips to reduce stress and keep diabetes mellitus under control

Seek out support
The first step is to talk to a trusted family member or friend about how you feel – someone who will listen to you and offer support and solutions. If stress becomes too overwhelming, you may even want to consider consulting with a counsellor or mental health professional.
 
Relax more
Making time to relax every day is essential. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation are highly recommended. Meditate each morning for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat positive affirmations such as “Today will be a good day,” or “Stress just rolls off my back,” and allow stress to lift off your shoulders.

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Blood sugar worries? 
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The latest blood sugar science shows that your body’s own safety mechanism is why your current blood sugar solution may be selling you short.
 
In fact, this research confirms that targeting only your body’s natural insulin and your pancreas to conquer blood sugar is like trying to douse a forest fire with a glass of water.
 
But this research has also led to some really exciting news for you—a breakthrough in blood sugar science that no one saw coming.
 
Get ready to sigh with sweet relief!

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Get exercising
Endorphins released from staying active can alleviate stress and keep your blood sugar levels within a healthy range, among a wealth of other health benefits. Join a running or biking club, participate in some group sports, sign up for salsa lessons or just hit the gym and sweat.
 
Stay on track with diet and medications
Even if your diabetes mellitus management plan adds unwanted stress to your life, you need to sick with it. The Cleveland Clinic urges to eat healthy meals and take your medications as directed – a key combination for reducing stress levels.
 
PS: Did you know that your diabetes mellitus medicine can reduce your risk of Parkinson’s disease by 35%? Learn more here.

Tags: diabetes mellitus