Learning to Control Your
Diabetes
The number one goal of diabetes treatment is to control
high blood sugar levels. It is important not only to target
good behaviors, but also to consistently follow through
with them.
Monitoring your blood sugar level is a vital part in the
treatment and management of the disease. Also, in many cases
intensive lifestyle changes in diet and exercise can actually
prevent, reduce or delay the risk of developing the disease.
It is important that you develop a game plan for a healthier
lifestyle, now.
Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
You may need to test your own blood sugar on a regular
basis to help you control and manage your diabetes. Talk
with your health care provider about:
- What type of test to use
- How to do the test the right way and how often to test
- How often to report the test results
- Getting the supplies you need to do the tests
Note: Other tests you should get on a regular basis include
blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests and other blood
fat tests.
Blood Glucose Monitoring
Devices
Those people with diabetes who control their blood sugar
(glucose), are more likely to stay healthy. People with
diabetes use two kinds of management devices: glucose meters
and other diabetes management tests.
Glucose Meters
Glucose meters help people with diabetes check their blood
sugar at home, school, work, and play. Some patients may
need to test (monitor) more often than others do. How often
you use your glucose meter should be based on the recommendation
of your health care provider.
Eat Well-Balanced Meals
By eating healthy foods in the right amounts you will keep
your weight under control and that will help you manage
your diabetes. By following the dietary guidelines (we recommend
the guidelines outlined by a licensed Naturopathic Physician),
you can promote your health and reduce your risk for other
chronic diseases as well such as heart disease, certain
cancers, stroke and osteoporosis. Making wise food choices
is important in lowering your risk of, or controlling, diabetes.
- Take a hard look at your serving sizes - reduce serving
sizes of main courses (such as meat), desserts, and foods
high in fat.
- Increase the amount of fruits and vegetables.
- Limit your fat intake
- Evaluate your daily calorie intake
- Keep a food (and exercise) log
Remember: Too much fat and cholesterol in your diet can
be very harmful to people with diabetes. Foods that are
high in fat include red meat, dairy products (whole milk,
cream, cheese and ice cream), egg yolks, butter, salad dressings,
vegetable oils and many desserts.
Exercise for Diabetics
Exercise is important for good diabetes control, as it
generally lowers blood sugar and may help insulin work better.
Exercise and a healthy diet can also help you take off extra
pounds if you are overweight.
If you are overweight or obese, choose sensible ways to
get in shape: avoid crash diets, increase your physical
activity (build up to at least 30 minutes or exercise most
days of the week), and set a reasonable weight-loss goal
such as losing 1 pound a week (aim for a long-term goal
of losing a specific percent of your total body weight).
Be sure to choose activities you enjoy. Here are some ways
to work extra activity into your daily routine:
- Take the stairs rather than an elevator or escalator.
- Park at the far end of the lot and walk.
- Get off the bus a few stops early and walk the rest
of the way.
- Walk or bicycle instead of driving whenever you can.
Warning: Check with your doctor before starting any exercise
program. You may need a snack before or during the activity
to avoid having low blood sugar while you exercise.
Diabetic Medications
Some people need medication to help control their blood
pressure or cholesterol levels. If you do, be sure to take
your medicines as directed. Ask your doctor if there are
any medicines you can take to prevent
type 2 diabetes.
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