People with type 2 diabetes can win between 3 and 5 kilos of weight in summer due to the relaxation of habits at this time of year.

People with chronic diseases such as diabetes can be affected by high temperatures and humidity of the summer.This, together with the relaxation or abandonment of the habits of this time of the year, can win between 3 and 5 kilos of weight to people with type 2 diabetes, as well as worsen the control of the disease, giving rise to the appearanceof associated complications.

And it is that up to 35% of Spaniards with type 2 diabetes have diabetic nephropathy, while cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of mortality between these patients3.Other complications such as diabetic retinopathy, one of the main causes of blindness, has a prevalence of 40%.

Therefore, especially at this time, it is important notWalk or practice outdoor sports.

The Mediterranean, the Queen of Diets

Food control is essential for people with diabetes, although it is usually the first habit affected by the relaxation of schedules."Uploading about two kilos can be frequent for some patients at this time of year, as well as returning from vacations with altered blood glucose levels," says Mercedes Galindo, an educator nurse in diabetes of the endocrinology and nutrition service of the Clinical HospitalSan Carlos (Madrid), professor of the Nursing School at the Complutense University and member of the Board of Directors of SED.

The ideal diet for people with type 2 diabetes is the Mediterranean, where the consumption of fish and white meat on red meat, legumes, nuts, integral cereals, fruits and the skimmed dairy products predominates.Virgin olive oil must constitute the fundamental addition fat.5

The diabetes expert nurse ensures that it is not necessaryThey can be taken cold, in salad.The second dish will be lighter and the bread, the fruit or the potato can be introduced as a wild card in the cases in which the food has less amount of carbohydrates than the necessary ”.

No to sedentary lifestyle

The intensity of physical activity must adapt to the conditions of the summer;It is advisable not to abandon this habit.The blood glucose levels should be controlled both before and after the exercise to avoid hypoglycemia, and “take carbohydrates in greater or lesser quantity depending on the intensity and duration of the exercise (a piece of fruit, a yogurt or a small snack) to compensate for theglucose levels, ”says Galindo.Sweat, weakness, tremors and feeling of tiredness are some symptoms of hypoglycemia that must be taken into account6.

On the other hand, both heat and humidity and high blood glucose levels can cause dehydration, so drinking water constantly is a guarantee to stay hydrated.

Health of the feet

The care of the feet also takes prominence during the summer for people with diabetes."Neurological and vascular problems cause the loss of sensitivity in the feet and, if any injury occurs that is not identified in time for not feeling pain, it can lead to an infection," says the nurse.Therefore, it is recommended to wear closed and comfortable footwear andCheck, at the end of the day, if you have any injury with the aim of being able to treat it in time.

The diabetes clock, a useful tool for summer

These and other healthy habits are collected in the diabetes clock: a daytime clock and another night they offer, time by time, tips on food, exercise, blood glucose controls or medical visits to help patients manage their disease 24hours of the day, becoming a good ally for summer.

The diabetes clock, a useful tool for summer
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