Dealing with diabetes can sometimes be overwhelming and disheartening — but there are things you can do to fight those feelings. Try these tips for things like increasing the quality of your daily life and minimizing the chances of complications, and you’ll feel more confident about your ability to handle diabetes.

Almonds are a great way to curb your appetite and they won’t bother your blood sugar levels. Unsalted almonds are a nutritional goldmine where you can unearth nutrients, such as fiber and protein. When you are craving a snack in the evening, keep a bowl in the living room so you can munch on them while you watch television.

You can get a free blood glucose meter from your pharmacy just by asking. They usually have coupons or rebates so that you can get the latest model at no cost, the caveat is that you’ll be buying their brand of blood test strips for the rest of your life.

The best thing a person can do to avoid diabetes is to exercise. People who exercise 30 to 60 minutes per day, at least 5 days per week, can lower their risk of developing diabetes by almost 50 percent. Exercise improves the health of your heart and lungs, reduces stress, reduces fat, increases metabolism and lowers blood sugar levels.

Eat foods rich in fiber. By eating fruits, vegetables, and grains you will improve your diet. You will lose weight and feel great. Fiber can help give you more control over your blood sugar and lower your chances of getting heart disease. Other sources of fiber include nuts, seeds, and beans.

Be passionate about having Diabetes and become an advocate for the disease. Type II Diabetes is preventable, and it’s costing our government billions of dollars in treatment for people who can’t afford it. You may not be one of those who are tapping the system for your care, but speaking up about what you know to help others avoid the disease will help us be able to use our money for more important things.

Try to avoid alcohol when you are diabetic. Even small amounts of alcohol, especially beer, can dangerously raise your blood sugar. Many doctors are in agreement that having a glass of wine once in awhile is okay for diabetics, just do not have more than one glass and do not drink it everyday.

If you are a diabetic, it is crucial that you have your blood pressure checked regularly. Diabetes can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, which can lead to serious health problems, like strokes. Try to buy a home blood pressure machine or go to a pharmacy to check it yourself.

Even though diabetes both influences your day-to-day life and has potential long-term effects, it can be treated and controlled. These tips will help you manage your diabetes in smart, compassionate ways. Having that control will, in turn, keep you feeling good about yourself and your life no matter how tough things get sometimes.