Dehydration, heat spikes and too many mangoes: Why summer can be dangerous for diabetics

This is how diabetics can stay healthy during summer

• Dehydration is commonly seen in diabetics during the summer. Try to drink at least 2-3 litres of water per day. Avoid packaged juices or cold drinks just because you feel hot. They can raise blood sugar levels.
• Be indoors and make sure to avoid venturing out of the house when there is too much heat outside. Be indoors from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In case you are required to venture out of the house, then use hats, umbrellas, or scarves.
• Opt for light meals and have fresh vegetables, fruits with low glycaemic index, and whole grains. Try to avoid junk, oily, canned, and processed food.
• Try to store insulin and medications away from direct heat or sunlight.
• Diabetics should wear loose, breathable clothes to help reduce excessive sweating and overheating.
• Exercise indoors, you can do yoga, gymming, aerobics, Zumba and stay healthy.
• Cut down on sugary foods and caffeine. Understand that caffeine can lead to dehydration and impact blood sugar levels.
• Report signs such as extreme thirst, dizziness, constant urination and dizziness to the doctor without any delay for prompt intervention.
• Summer is synonymous with mangoes. So, diabetics shouldn’t go overboard on mangoes at all. One slice of a mango a day is okay. Eating too many mangoes can raise blood sugar levels.
• If you have been diagnosed recently or have been struggling with diabetes for a long time, then summer is the time to rework your health goals. Give up on alcohol and smoking, stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, exercise indoors, and you will be able to beat the heat.