The bigger your dish, the more food you're likely to eat. Swap your dish for a smaller plate and portion control will be automatic!
If you're struggling with constipation, a common problem for folks with diabetes [6], try sunflower kernels: These tasty nuggets are packed with fiber and are a good source of protein. Just choose the unsalted variety so they're blood pressure-friendly. Bonus: Sunflower seeds have been proven to help lower cholesterol, according to a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Take the edge off anxiety with this breathing technique: Inhale quietly through your nose for a count of four. Hold for a count of seven. Exhale through your mouth for eight, making a "whoosh" sound.
If self-injecting makes you cringe, try pinpointing your underlying fear. It might be "This will hurt." Then write it down, cross it out and write: "This shot can make my life better." Focusing on the positive can help lift anxiety [7].
Can't remember if you took your insulin or not? Try filling the syringes you'll need for the day first thing. That way you'll know for sure whether you took a dose.
"I used to wait until after work to take my insulin," says Francine Criscione, who has type 2 diabetes. "But then I'd have to wait an hour before I could eat! Now I keep my kit at work and inject right before I leave."
Prop your blood sugar [8] meter inside your coffee cup so you'll remember to do your morning check before breakfast.
What's your little lifesaver?
If you have a secret that makes life with diabetes easier, please share! Email us at talktous@healthmonitor.com [9].