If you're like most people, you're probably aware that exercise is important for good health, particularly if you have diabetes. Being active each day can help control your weight and manage your blood sugar levels, but it's often difficult to find an exercise routine you can stick with.

Maintaining regular activity is hard when you're just starting out, and it can take about six weeks to truly adopt a new habit. If you've fallen out of practice, take this chance to jump-start your exercise routine. Keep in mind these simple pointers and you'll be on your way to getting your exercise plan up and running for the long term.

Top 10 Ways to Start a Personal Exercise Program

• Start slowly and build up gradually — 15 minutes a day is enough to start with, and it'll get your heart going.
• Wear shoes that fit well, have plenty of room, and are appropriate for the activity.
• Find an exercise partner — you'll be more likely to stick with the routine...
  
  

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By keeping a written account of what you eat on a regular basis, you can begin to discover your habits, become more aware of what, when, and why you eat, and make the connection between the foods you eat and your moods.

How to Start Your Diabetes Food Journal

• Keep a record. Document what you've eaten, how long it took you to eat, and how hungry you were at the time.
• Be yourself. Write in the style that feels most comfortable to you - in your own words.
• Be creative. Journals are not just for writing...
  
  

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Whether you're new to diabetes or an experienced veteran, it's important to communicate any concerns or questions you have to your doctor. You might find it helpful to prepare a written list of questions to ask your doctor before each visit to make sure you don't forget to ask anything.

Here are some suggested questions to help get you started.

1. How often should I check my blood sugar?
   
   
   • Blood sugar monitoring is an essential part of a good diabetes management plan. According to the American Diabetes Association^®, tight control for adults with diabetes is defined as a fasting level of 70 to 130 mg/dL and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after the start of a meal...
     
     

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If your to-do list keeps getting longer, it can be hard to stay on track with good diabetes management. Here are a few simple tips to help you find balance (despite your busy lifestyle).

Eat Right on the Run

• Pack a snack, such as a Glucerna^® Snack Shake or Snack Bar.
• Limit sugary drinks. Instead, choose water, unsweetened tea, or diet soda.
• Use reduced-calorie dressing on salads.
• Eat mindfully. By really tasting and enjoying food, you'll feel more satisfied...
  
  

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Healthy eating practices don't have to go out the window when you walk through a restaurant door. Check out this helpful Guide to Dining Out from SparkPeople®. You’ll see how a nutritious meal, including dessert, can be yours to enjoy — even when you're eating out.

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Whether you are on vacation, work outside of the home, or are going to a restaurant for dinner, these simple guidelines will help you keep your blood sugar under control.

• Monitor glucose levels more often if you deviate from your diabetes care plan. For example, if you eat foods that you don't regularly include in your diet and/or you eat at a different time than usual, you can benefit from checking glucose levels more often.
• Keep all diabetes care supplies with you in a purse, carry-on bag, or backpack...
  
  

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