(Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news)
Improper
hydration affects the blood sugar level
Summer puts many off their health tracks. Due to the heat
waves, people often resort to having lots of fluids; what disturbs the health
pattern of many is the consumption of carbonated drinks and unhealthy processed
foods to quench the thirst and hunger pangs.
In many other cases, people are not able to compensate for
the loss of water which happens due to the heat and get dehydrated.
Improper hydration affects the blood sugar level to a large
extent and this is why diabetics need to watch their diet during the summers.
Sweet juices
should be avoided
It is difficult to avoid a glass of fruit juice when you are
outside in the heat. But you need to understand that having sugar loaded drinks
will bring you a temporary respite from heat, but it won't give you the nutrition
that your body needs. Juices are devoid of fibres too.
It is advisable to carry a bottle of water when going out
during summer season.
Eat more fibres
Diabetics are specially advised to include more fibre in
their food. This is because fibres slow down the release of sugar into the
bloodstream and will prevent blood glucose spikes.
Eating fibre rich food
will also keep you full and prevent cravings.
Mangoes should
be eaten in moderation
As per a health journal, "mango contains natural sugar,
which can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. However, its supply of
fiber and antioxidants may help minimize its overall blood sugar impact."
Therefore, if you are diabetic person, you need to consume
mangoes in moderation.
Avoid eating too much
mango at a time.
Keep yourself
hydrated
Always carry a water bottle with you. Keep yourself hydrated
throughout the day. Dip in water content is sure to impact the blood sugar
level.
Hydration keeps the
blood sugar level low and flushes out extra toxins from the bloodstream.
Check the
glycemic index (GI) of foods
Since this is the season
of mangoes, you need to be careful with the rate of consumption. Mangoes should
be definitely eaten in moderation, and so will other foods. Before eating any
fruit, do not forget to check the GI level.
Try variation in
foods
Try to have more variations in your food. Instead of having
the same platter, tweak it a bit to allow more water-rich food to get into your
body.
For example, you can
replace your evening snacks with a bowl full of cucumber or slices of
watermelon. Since 90% of these fruits are composed of water, it is very
beneficial to have these in your diet.
What else should
you do during the summer?
If you use insulin,
store it in a cooler place. You should also keep your glucose meter and test
strips at normal temperature. Heat can damage these.
