Reduce stress Your blood sugar can rise because of stress. That's why it's important to learn how to lower your stress levels. Many activities can help with reducing stress, like deep breathing and listening to music. If your mental health is affected, ask for help. Talk with a mental health counselor, support group, religious leader, friend, or family member about how you're feeling.

Eat well Your health care team should help you put together a diabetes meal plan. Choose foods that are lower in calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar, and salt. Be sure to eat foods with more fiber and drink water instead of juice or soda. When you eat, try to fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, one quarter with lean protein, and one quarter with whole grains.

Be active In addition to your meal plan, being active can help you stay at or get to a healthy weight. You can start slowly by taking 10-minute walks, 3 times a day. Eventually, use stretch bands, do yoga, engage in heavy gardening (digging and planting with tools), or try push-ups to build muscle strength.

Monitor your diabetes

• Keep track of your blood sugar
• Take all of your medicine as prescribed
• Check your feet for cuts, blisters, red spots, or swelling. If you have any sores that do not go away, call your health care team immediately
• Check your blood pressure if your doctor directs you to