An unexpected diabetes diagnosis can be a shot to the wallet for anyone living on a tight budget.
If left untreated, diabetes can negatively affect the heart, kidneys and eyes as the disease progresses in severity. It could even lead to death. Physicians typically prescribe pills and insulin for patients to manage their diabetes. But, for those in college, living on a limited income or uninsured, medication can be pricey. And depending on the amount of insulin you need for your specific diabetes, this can contribute to how much money you spend monthly.
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Here are some ways to help manage your diabetes while living on a tight budget, regardless of your situation, according to one expert, Marisela Noorhasan, MD:
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1. Exercise
Studies show that 30 minutes of exercise every day can increase insulin sensitivity. Therefore, you could take less amounts of insulin to control your glucose level. The exercises can vary from stretches, jumping jacks and stationary jogging, to weight lifting with cans of soup as your weights and dancing around the house.
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2. Herbs
Some herbs and foods can help with blood-sugar control. These include aloe, karalla, fenugreek, parsley, rosemary, eyebright and almond nuts. However, the Food and Drug Administration hasn’t approved many supplements in vitamin, herbal, mineral or spice form. So, be sure to discuss these foods before taking them for diabetes management. But, it’s OK to stay away from foods known to raise your glucose level, including candies, soda, rice and pasta.3. Generic v. Brand
The generic version of diabetes medication is typically cheaper than the brand name. This is usually the case for many medications regardless of the condition. “Ordering a higher prescription dose of medication and cutting the medication to the prescribed dose can make the medication last twice as long,” Noorhasan says. Speak with your physician about other supplies, such as meters and strips, which could be used with insulin to help lower the required dose for insulin-resistant diabetes.
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4. Managing high blood pressure
Just like diabetes, high blood pressure is a contributor to many heart-related diseases, such as stroke and even death. Limiting your salt intake is one way to manage your blood pressure. These foods are also beneficial in lowering blood pressure: tamarind drink, spinach, beans, sunflower seeds, bananas, spinach, squash, garlic, honey, ginger, cantaloupe, cumin seeds, cayenne pepper and lemon. Alcohol can also raise one’s blood pressure, so make sure to monitor your drinking habits.
