STRESS LESSON: Stress and Diabetes

I am amazed at the increasing number of people around me who have type II diabetes-I have it , also. While its obvious diet play a significant role in this problem, we should also explore how stress effect it. Therefore, the following article is enclosed to give you some useful information on the subject. Please read and heed. thanks, BG
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KEEP STRESS
IN CHECK

“So how does stress effect your body? When you are in a stressful situation your body reacts with the fight-or–flight response. This gets you ready for action or escape. Your body also produces stress hormones that change stored forms of glucose into blood glucose. The short-term effect is to raise blood glucose levels for quick action. However, people with diabetes might have a longer period of high blood glucose than the body needs.
Long term stress can cause a person to have raised glucose levels for an extended period of time. Stress can also make it more difficult to follow a diabetes management plan.

ARE YOU STRESSED OUT?
Stress can effect your body, mind and behavior. Some physical signs of stress may include:
* A faster or irregular heartbeat and rapid breathing
* Sweating
* Muscle tension
* Upset stomach

When you have an emotional reaction to stress you might feel:
* Anxious
* Irritable
* Angry
* Depressed

MANAGE STRESS IN DAILY LIFE
Even when you can’t change the source of stress , you can change how you respond to it. Here are some of the ways to help reduce the effects of stress:
* Exercise regularly.
* Work on inproving your time management skills.
* Learn relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation.
* Replace negative thoughts with realistic statements that put things in perspective.
* Write in a journal.
* Consider taking part in a support group.
* Treat yourself well. For example, get yourself a massage.

Good diabetes control will help, too. At your mext office appointment, talk with your health care provider about your treratment plan. If your having trouble following it, (they) can work withy your to make small changes and help you set realistic goals.
When you can take control of your diabetes and stress, you’ll have an easier time relaxing.”