Diabetes affects about 3.7 million people in the UK. About 90 per cent of all cases are caused by type 2 diabetes.
The risk of developing high blood sugar could be reduced by making some small dietary or exercise changes.
While everyone should be sure to eat a healthy diet, it’s especially important for diabetes patients, LloydsPharmacy told Express.co.uk.
But, eating healthily isn’t always easy, especially if you’re short on time.
One of the best ways to lower the risk of type 2 diabetes is to swap to a ‘skinny’ coffee, it said.
Swapping to a coffee made with skimmed milk is an easy way to lower your risk of high blood sugar.
Similarly, if when ordering a hot chocolate at the local coffee shop, be sure to ask for a ‘skinny’ hot chocolate, said LloydsPharmacy.
“Switch to a ‘skinny’ coffee made with semi-skimmed or skimmed milk instead of whole milk,” it told Express.co.uk.
“Swap hot chocolate made with whole milk and whipped cream for hot chocolate made with skimmed milk, and avoid the cream.”
Diabetics could also lower the risk of hyperglycaemia with their choice of drink at home.
Patients that prefer squash to water should make a swap to a cordial that contains no added sugar, the pharmacy added.
When eating breakfast, avoid drinking sweetened fruit juices, it said.
“Try 100 per cent fruit juice with no added sugar mixed with sparkling water, instead of a cola or fizzy drink.”
A healthy diet and keeping active with help patients to manage their blood sugar levels, said the NHS.
All diabetics should eat a wide range of foods, including fruit, vegetable and some starchy foods.
Diabetes type 2 is caused by the pancreas not producing enough of the hormone insulin, or the body not reacting to the hormone.
Without enough insulin, the body struggles to convert sugar in the blood into useable energy.
Diabetes symptoms include fatigue, blurred vision, and passing more urine than normal.
Managing blood sugar is very important for diabetes patients, as they’re more at risk of some life-threatening conditions, including heart disease and strokes.
Speak to a GP if you’re worried about the signs and symptoms of diabetes.