Diabetes Doesn't Define

Are you a diabetic or are you a person that has diabetes? Same thing. Right? Well, technically, yes. However, I think that there are two different mindsets here depending on how you say it. 

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When you get diagnosed with diabetes, you know that you are in it for life. It's easy to get into the mindset of "Well, I'm a diabetic, so I can't do that or I can't have that." 

This is especially true when you hear it from others. Have you ever been passed over when someone is handing out sweets and they say, "Oh, right, you're a diabetic. You can't have sugar."? I mean, we really probably don't need it, but it kind of still hurts. You feel singled out and different. Diabetes shouldn't feel like a prison cell. This can lead to depression, which can also negatively affect our health. 

So, how do we balance living life as normally as we can without compromising our health? I have found that timing is crucial for a diabetic. It's not so much as "I can't have that." as it is "I can't have that right now." Maybe you are at the checkout lane and see that dark chocolate bar that looks so tempting. Instead of telling yourself that you can't have that, tell yourself that you can get it for later for when you have a low blood sugar. When that co-worker comes around offering you their home-baked cookies and then says that they know that you can't have it because you're diabetic, feel free to politely inform them that that's not how diabetes works! Speak up for yourself! You can tell them "Well, my blood sugar is a little high right now, but I'd love to take one for later!" This not only can make you feel not as singled out, but it can also be a great opportunity to help spread awareness!

Timing is very important, but so is portion control! Yes, we probably shouldn't go to the ice cream stand and order the biggest sundae with ten different toppings on it- but really most people shouldn't probably do that either. Instead, try getting a small size without toppings. Instead of eating a whole plate full of pasta, maybe only eat a small portion and pair it with a salad!

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Being carb conscience is also very important. Instead of getting an ice cream cone with chocolate and caramel on top, you can try getting a cup of ice cream with peanut butter drizzled on top. You've already knocked out quite a bit of carbs right there! You can also see if the establishment serves frozen yogurt. This is one of my favorite substitutions!

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My local establishment serves frozen yogurt that only has 7 grams of carbs and 32 calories in half a cup. That's a win in my book! I can still go hang out with friends at the ice cream stand without having to worry about my blood sugar spiking like crazy!

Having diabetes doesn't mean that you can't enjoy life. We just have to be more mindful and conscientious about what we do and how we live. Please be sure to check with your doctor before changing your diet or lifestyle to make sure that the changes are right for you. 

Diabetes doesn't have to define you if you don't let it. Diabetes doesn't have you. You have diabetes. It's time to take control and get your life back!