Many people with diabetes are faced with the challenge of a strict diet or medicine routine. This causes times which result in them ‘falling off the wagon’ so to speak. No one out there is perfect, we are all human! If you find yourself struggling with your day to day care of your diabetes, it’s important to learn from the experience. If you don’t recognize what triggered you falling off the wagon, you’re more likely to react the same way the next time the situation arises.

Identify the triggers…

Upset, emotions and stress

We all know that life happens and sometimes it can get crazy. This might lead to forgetting to take your medicine or eating something you maybe shouldn’t have or eating too much in general. The first step is realizing that one misstep is completely okay.

SOLUTION: The best thing to do is to be prepared. If you rely on food for comfort then work out what things you can eat as a stress relief treat which will not spike your blood sugar levels. OR, even better, find another way to cope with your stress like taking a bath, lighting a candle, or even going for a walk. Take some time for yourself!

Too much restriction

Many people with diabetes rely on a restrictive diet to manage their sugar levels. If you over restrict yourself then you can quickly feel deprived and depressed and it is only a matter of time before you crack.

SOLUTION: You can check out diabetes dietary advice at many websites including www.diabetes.org . Remember, you are able to eat most things, as long as they are in moderation. You should be able to have a wide variety of foods while still managing your diabetes.

Bored of what you’re eating

It’s very easy to keep eating the same things over and over as they give good readings. But there will come a time when you get to the point of getting sick of eating the exact same meal night after night.

SOLUTION: Vary your diet as much as possible and try lots of new things based on your diet. You really don’t need to eat the same thing every day, you don’t need to go hungry and you shouldn’t feel deprived as there’s so many things you CAN have. Furthermore, look into new recipes, check out some of our other blogs for new foods and recipes to try.

Avoid temptation

If you struggle seeing other people eat or drink certain things in front of you and think that this would play a part in you falling off the wagon, then try your best to avoid being around those things or find the best diabetes-friendly alternative. If you’re going out for a meal, check out the menu beforehand and prepare which things would be your best choices. If you struggle with a partner or a family member that doesn’t understand why you are being strict on your diet and persists in eating the things you crave in front of you, then try and educate them on diabetes nutrition.

Yes you can

We are all human!

Diabetes can be very challenging at times, juggling diet, exercise, and medication. In the end, we all make mistakes – accept it and move on. Life is too short to dwell on what can’t be changed. Try and learn from those mistakes and make yourself the healthiest version of you.

Disclaimer: Any information provided is not intended as medical advice. Iowa Diabetes is not responsible for any information from third parties.