It is never good news to hear about the possibility of diabetes or attempt to live a normal life after you have developed the condition. There are actually some pretty simple things that can be done each day that are known to lower your chances for diabetes and to help you live a healthier life.

If you suffer from diabetes it is absolutely critical that you monitor the amount of alcohol you drink. Cutting back on alcohol consumption is one of the best things a diabetic can do to improve their health. Alcohol is loaded with empty calories and fast acting carbohydrates. These fast acting carbohydrates quickly raise blood sugar levels in the body and this, in turn, can lead to type II diabetes complications.

Unlike breastfeeding, no one cares if you shoot up your insulin at the table. Really! Don't hide away in a bathroom or closet, come clean with your diagnosis and have your family and friends share in your recovery. The more they know, the more they can support you when you need them.

It's okay to reuse lancets on your blood glucose monitor, or syringes when you inject yourself with insulin. As long as you're not sharing then there is next to no real danger in reusing either, so change them when they begin to hurt you, or at least once a month.

Pay attention to the feeling in your feet and hands by testing them once in a while. Go barefoot on the floor and see if you can feel the grout between the tiles. When you're in the shower, drop something and step on it so you can see how well you feel it. Do the same when holding a pencil or pen. If you feel any loss of sensation, go to your doctor and let them know!

If you lack comprehensive health insurance and are diagnosed with Diabetes, don't fear. Many drug companies and supply manufacturers have programs that can give you either free supplies or a vast discount. You may need to have your doctor apply on your behalf, attesting to the fact that you are financially strapped.

Find out if your state government offers neighborhood health services where you can get discounted medical treatment, supplies, and prescriptions to help you battle your Diabetes. Some states also offer discounted health insurance, which can be an even bigger help by allowing you to seek treatment in your own city or town.

Conditions like Gastroparesis can cause your stomach to empty itself of food more slowly than normal after you have eaten a meal. For diabetics, this can translate to unpredictable drops and spikes in blood glucose levels, which can then affect the way that you feel throughout the day. Consider speaking with your doctor about whether you should take your insulin later or sooner than the standard 45 minutes before a meal.

If you see ANY damage to the skin on your feet and you have Diabetes you must let your podiatrist know as soon as possible! He'll be able to tell you what to use to keep it clean and free of infection, and prescribe you an antibiotic cream or gel if necessary.

There really is not a diabetic diet. The American Diabetes Association recommends that you get 50 percent of your calories from carbohydrates, 30 percent from fats, and 20 percent from proteins. Proteins work to stabilize blood sugars and to help you feel satisfied. Proteins also help your body to rebuild and provide nutrients your body needs not found in carbs and fats.

Before you test your blood glucose levels, you should make sure your hands and especially your fingertips, are clean. When you clean your fingers, do not use alcohol. Alcohol is drying and can cause your fingertips to crack. When cleaning your hands, use a mild antibacterial soap such as Dial.

If you're diabetic, you need to eat and check your blood sugar regularly, even if you're feeling sick or don't have any appetite. Low glucose levels will lead to dehydration, so keep water handy.

If you follow all or some of these helpful tips, you will reduce your body's likelihood of developing diabetes and living through years of intense medical treatment, ongoing pain, and drastic changes to your diet . They also make your body generally healthier, which is something everyone should strive for, regardless of their condition.