Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) condition, that can be managed with adequate diet, exercise and the right medication. The goal of management is to keep your blood sugar levels within the recommended range, which can be quite challenging, but not impossible!

Here are 6 lifestyle hacks you can use to manage your blood sugar levels:

1. Eat healthy, nutritious meals:
   You are what you eat, and what you eat reflects on your blood sugar levels. Focus on eating whole grains and millets (whole wheat, jowar, bajra, nachni) rather than refined foods made with maida. Eat plenty of vegetables and sprouts, while limiting your intake of sugar and fat.
2. Exercise:
   Staying active forms a very important part of your blood sugar management. Remember, it’s never too late to start exercising. Walking is one of the best and safest exercise. Your goal should be 30 to 45 minutes of moderate physical activity per day. This means that your chosen activity should make you sweat and breathe a little harder than normal. Exercise is highly beneficial to manage blood sugar, lower weight and reduce risk of heart disease.
3. Take your medications regularly:
   Being compliant to the medication prescribed by your doctor is vital to get your blood sugar under control and prevent future complications. Talk to your doctor about any questions you have about the recommended treatment plan.
4. Follow-up with your doctor:
   Routine monitoring of blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor is important to keep it on track. Learn about various tests (HbA1c, fasting and post lunch sugars, cholesterol). It is important to get a regular foot and eye examination too.
5. Manage stress:
   Stress can increase your blood sugar levels. Learning  to manage and cope with stressful situations will go a long way in your ability to manage blood sugar better. Deep breathing, yoga and other forms of exercise are proven methods of keeping stress away.
6. Stop smoking and reduce alcohol:
   Diabetes may put you at a higher risk of developing other complications like heart or kidney disease, eye problems and nerve damage. If you smoke, the risk of developing these complications becomes higher. Talk to your doctor about the best way to quit smoking.Alcohol intake may make your blood sugar levels drop or increase, causing fluctuations and higher risk of complications.

It is important that you work closely with your doctor to manage your diabetes by focusing