Good habits can help control diabetes! Let's see how

When you start your day, you do some things without thinking about them, right? For example, brushing your teeth as soon as you wake up in the morning, making a cup of tea, or fastening your seat belt when you get in the car. We do these things without thinking about them, but because they have become our habits. To be precise, these are what we call "habits". If you are someone who lives with diabetes, or medically speaking , Diabetes Mellitus , then developing some good habits like these can make a big difference and make your life much easier. Let's talk about this simply and politely.

What exactly is this 'habit'?

Simply put, a habit is an action that we do unconsciously, almost automatically, when we receive a cue. We think that all our actions are deliberate and intentional. But the truth is different. Research has found that only 43% of what we do in a day is done out of habit, when our minds are elsewhere.

This is one of the best strategies we can use to manage a long-term condition like diabetes. When you make good eating habits and exercise a part of your life, managing diabetes will become a daily chore rather than a burden.

Research also shows that a healthy habit becomes a strong habit when you do it consistently for about two months. The important thing is that the habit doesn’t break just because you miss a day. So don’t worry. For example, let’s say you make it a habit to eat a piece of fruit every morning after breakfast. After a while, you’ll automatically remember to eat a piece of fruit after breakfast.

How to start a new good habit?

Okay, now you're probably thinking, "How do I start a good habit like this?" It's not as hard as you think. Here are some simple steps to help you.

1. Make a clear plan

First, think about why you are making this change . How will your life improve once you make this habit? Maybe it's something like, "I want to be happy with my kids for a few more years," "I want to cut down on my medication," or "I want to be more active." Whatever your reason, write it down on a small piece of paper and stick it somewhere you can see it every day. For example, near the mirror or on the fridge. This will give you a boost when you feel down.

2. Set a 'SMART' goal

Next, keep in mind the big goal you want to achieve, and choose a small, simple habit that will help you achieve it. This is where the SMART method will help you a lot. This means that your goal should have these five characteristics.

3. Track your progress

Keeping a log of how you're doing with your new habit can be a great way to keep track of your progress. Track your progress in a notebook, calendar, or phone app. For example, put a check mark next to every day you go for a walk. After a week or two, you'll feel proud of yourself when you see those check marks. Also, tell a trusted friend or family member about it. It'll be a good reminder when they ask, "Did I go for a walk today?"

Some simple, good habits that help with diabetes

• Checking your blood sugar in the morning: Make it a habit to check your blood sugar level every morning when you wake up, before doing anything else.
• After-meal walk: Take a short walk for 10-15 minutes after a main meal, especially lunch or dinner.
• Drink water: Always keep a bottle of water with you. Drink some water whenever you feel like drinking sugary drinks.
• A healthy snack: When going to work or traveling, instead of eating greasy food outside, take something from home, like fruit, some peas, or yogurt.
• Foot Check: People with diabetes are more likely to develop foot ulcers. So it's a good habit to check your feet every night before going to bed for any cuts, scrapes, or blisters.

Don't try to do it all at once. Start with one habit. Once it becomes a part of your life, move on to the next one. The most important thing is to talk to your doctor before making any major changes to your diet or exercise routine. He or she will tell you exactly what is best for you.