Starting your day off on the right foot is the key to productivity and happiness. That is especially true for diabetics who require a routine to keep things functioning steadily and without any diabetic surprises.

That’s why perfecting your morning routine to ensure your diabetes symptoms don’t get the best of you is the key to a healthy life.

With that in mind here are 5-morning habits that will help you to get the upper hand with your blood sugar disease.

#1 Coconut Oil Pulling
Unfortunately for diabetics, gum disease and diabetes are tethered together. Ergo, it is of absolute importance that diabetics emphasize superior oral hygiene. That’s why pulling with coconut is so important.

The art of pulling is simple. All that is required is a tablespoon of coconut that you swish around your mouth for about 15 minutes. Once done Spit the contents into your trash can (you don’t want the oil clogging your pipes) and the brush your teeth like normal. The oil will pull all of the bacteria and toxins out of your teeth and gums.

#2 Lemon Water
Squeeze a little lemon into a glass of water. Drinking a glass of lemon water will help stimulate your metabolism and purify your organs. And because it is loaded with vitamin C, it will help boost your already taxed immune system.

#3 Cold Shower

Taking a cold water tells your body to release norepinephrine, a hormone that calms you down. Norepinephrine also triggers an anti-inflammatory response throughout the body, soothing you on a cellular level.

#4 Brisk Walk

Maybe a dog is in order. The morning walk your canine requires will help regulate blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity. Even, better, a half an hour stroll to start your day will boost your metabolism and release neurotransmitters that will improve your mood!

#5 Protein-Rich Breakfast

Protein slows the digestion process, ensuring that fast digesting carbohydrates don’t make your blood sugar levels soar. Protein also helps you feel full longer, helping you to avoid between meal snacking while providing you the necessary energy required for the start of your day. Eggs are great way to get your dose of morning protein. Add a fresh avocado to the mix for a dose of healthy fat and fiber.