BEYOND LOWBLOOD SUGAR
In more complicated cases of diabetes where body movement is restricted — such as diabetic arteriopathy and peripheral vascular disease — physical therapists play an active role in supervised exercises. This means patients are able to exercise as needed without risk of injuring themselves further. Given time, these strategies can reduce pain, improve range of movement, and empower diabetic patients to pursue a more fulfilling lifestyle. There are many reasons why it’s important for diabetics to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. When left unchecked, diabetes can result in a number of troubling conditions, including the following: • Heart disease • Stroke • High blood pressure • Blindness • Kidney disease • Nerve damage (neuropathy) • Skin problems, including ulcers and infections In addition to helping manage diabetes, physical therapy has also been proven to be incredibly effective in preventing diabetes in patients who have been found to be prediabetic. If you are ready to see how physical therapy can help with your diabetes, give Horizon PT a call at 810.620.8042. Our team of experts can help you come up with a plan to improve your health and change what it means to live with diabetes.
There is a common myth that diabetics can’t eat sugar. After discovering that a friend or colleague is diabetic, some people attempt to show their support by offering sugar-free candies or warning them of the excess amount of sugar in certain food options. While well-meaning, these gestures are unnecessary. Diabetics can enjoy all their favorite sweet treats, though it is extremely important for individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and take steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle. One strategy many diabetics employ to control their condition and improve their health is personalized physical therapy treatment plans. Physical therapy can help in cases of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetic Association recommends at least two and a half hours of exercise a week. This can mean running, swimming, basketball, or any other moderate activity that raises your heart rate. A physical therapist can help identify what kind of activity will best lower their patient’s body weight, maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and fit into their schedule. Better yet, physical therapy can introduce exercises that increase muscle tone and strength, leading to reduced body fat. This makes blood sugar levels easier to control.
Spicy, Creamy Sweet Potatoes Ingredients Inspired by The New York Times
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5 pounds sweet potatoes ●1 cup canned coconut milk
●1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon kosher salt
Directions
1. Heat oven to 375 F. On a large sheet pan, bake potatoes until very soft, approximately 75 minutes. 2. Let potatoes cool until they are safe to handle, then peel and mash. 3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine coconut milk and curry paste. Once mixed, add the mixture, salt, half the sugar, and half the butter to potatoes. 4. 30 minutes before serving, heat oven to 425 F. Spread potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. 5. Uncover potatoes and dot with remaining butter and sugar. Broil until brown, crusty, and delicious. Serve hot.
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