With proper medication, diet and physical activity any diabetic person can live a normal risk free healthy life. Many sites on the Internet provide useful tips for managing diabetes. The most important step in managing diabetes is to know the disease. A clear understanding of the disease and its symptoms will help you reduce your stress, depression and fear.

A periodical check for blood glucose/sugar level is important in managing diabetes. Nowadays, there are many cheap and simple devices available that are highly effective in determining blood glucose levels. Writing down the readings regularly helps you keep the level in balance. Also, periodically check blood pressure level, cholesterol level, and urine/kidney, eyes, liver and pancreases functions.

Every diabetic management program requires a change in lifestyle. Consult a healthcare professional who will decide the mode of treatment that will suit your present physical condition. The amount of food you eat depends on many things such as your sex, age, weight and occupation. A certified dietician can determine what levels of food are optimal for you.

Carbohydrates are the major contributors to blood glucose, so limit carbohydrate foods in your diet to about 1/2 to 1 cup starch, 1/2-cup fruit and 1-cup milk per meal. Limit sweets and fatty foods. Excess fat can damage blood vessels and cause weight gain. Eat more vegetables such as tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbages, as these have low carbohydrate, high fiber and vitamin C that assist in controlling blood sugar levels.

Increase your physical activities. Spent at least 10 to 15 minutes a day walking and use stairs instead of elevators and escalators. Exercise not only reduces blood glucose level, but also benefits the heart, lungs and joints, and gives you a feeling of well-being.

Avoid weight gain, since excess weight not only increases diabetes, but also causes some complex health problems such as cardiovascular diseases. If you are overweight, losing weight gradually can help you control your diabetes. Take part in more social and cultural activities. They will provide you enormous mental pleasure and may also improve your social status. And lastly, don?t smoke.