How to wisely manage diabetes in winter

Diabetic patients should be more cautious about their illness through winter. This is due to the cold weather which leads to longer indoor hours, reducing physical activity, while year-end gatherings increase. Additionally, the immune system may weaken due to temperature differences. Moreover the physical and mental stress associated with concluding one year and starting a new one can further complicate blood sugar management.

According to Kim Byung-jun, professor of Endocrinology Department at Gachon University, diabetic patients during the winter season often exhibit significantly elevated levels of glycated hemoglobin.

Experts recommend that during winter, diabetic patients should increase their engagement in physical activity. Increased time remaining indoors due to the cold weather may lead to difficulties in blood sugar control. Professor Kim Cheol from Inje University Sanggye Baek Hospital stated, "Through exercising, one can effectively decrease blood sugar level by consuming glucose and fat to generate the necessary energy.

However, experts advised that engaging in extremely strenuous outdoor exercise during the cold winter might lead to problems as well. In fact, it is advisable to start with light exercise based on your own condition and gradually increase the intensity. A recommended routine involves 5-10 minutes of warm-up, followed by 20-30 minutes of high-intensity exercise, and concluding with 15-20 minutes of low-impact exercise. Exercises that can be easily applicable during daily life includes using stairs instead of elevators and walking a few stops in advance when using public transportation.

However, the fact that exercise is not universally beneficial for all diabetic patients is noteworthy. If a patient has insulin deficiency, one should be cautious as it could potentially lead to diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemia. In the presence of Hypertension Complications it is advisable to avoid exercises involving heavy lifting of objects.

It is important to be mindful of dietary control during the end of the year. Soups and stews, commonly enjoyed during this season, often consist of spicy and salty high-calorie foods. These stimulating foods can entice overconsumption, and their high sodium and fat content can make blood sugar control challenging while increasing the risk of obesity.

Professor Kim Byung-Jun emphasized, "Diet control is the most significant challenge for diabetes patients." He warned, "The blood sugar levels of diabetes patients can be influenced not only by the quantity of food consumed but also by the types of food. Therefore, even if one exercises regularly, it is crucial to be cautious as poor choices can lead to various issues’