Information regarding diabetes and day-to-day living with the disease.

1. Look at what you are eating. Eat smaller portions; you can make it look
   like more by using a smaller plate or a salad plate. Don’t snack while
   you are cooking. You probably don’t even realize how many calories
   you take in by snacking while cooking. Don’t be tempted to “clean
   up” the unfinished food to keep from throwing it away or storing it
   in the refrigerator. Eat breakfast every day, and make your meal and snack
   times regular by having them at the same time each day.


2. Limit your meat, poultry, and fish intake to about three ounces a day.
   This is equal to about the size of a pack of cards. Another good tip is to
   listen to music instead of watching TV. If you are watching TV while you
   are eating, you are not aware of how much you are eating.


3. Limit your desserts, and when eating out, have a good-sized vegetable salad
   to take the edge off your appetite. When you receive your entrée,
   either share it with your dinner companion, or ask for a take-home box immediately
   after receiving your meal. Have meals that have been stir fried, or make
   with a nonstick spray.


4. Low salt broth is a good substitute for oil and butter. Drinking a full
   glass of water before eating will also help reduce your appetite. If you
   are eating at a fast-food place, try choosing the healthier foods, such as
   grilled chicken, salad instead of fries, or fruit instead of desserts or
   shakes. It isn’t necessary to deprive yourself of all your favorite
   foods, just cut down on portions and eat at regular times and choose healthier
   foods.


5. Increase your physical activity! Yes, that means moving out of the chair
   and spending less time in front of the TV. There are small activities you
   can do to increase your physical activity. Turn the radio on and boogie while
   working on your household chores. Teach your kids how to dance the way you
   did when you were their age.


6. If you are at work, instead of sending e-mail to your co-worker, walk over
   to their desk and deliver the message in person. Take walks; it’s a
   great way to keep up with your friends and an enjoyable, healthy way to take
   a break. Avoid the elevator and take the stairs as much as you are comfortable
   in doing that. One friend of mine marches in place during each commercial
   while she is watching TV. Don’t circle the parking lot looking for
   the closest parking spot, park as far out as you feel comfortable in walking.
   Not only will it increase your activity level, but it also may save your
   car from a few dings.