For someone who is newly diagnosed with diabetes, the wide range of available information can be overwhelming. But by following some simple steps, patients can learn how to live a healthier lifestyle while taking control of their diabetes.

Tracking Blood Glucose Levels

Keeping track of blood glucose levels on a regular and frequent basis will give you a better understanding of how your body reacts to your daily routine and diet. By monitoring and recording your blood sugar levels, you can also assist your health care team in preventing future complications. 

Self-Monitoring of Glucose

You can do a daily test of your blood glucose level by using a portable electronic device called a glucometer. Test strips analyze a small drop of blood and then digitally relay the information to you, giving you a current snapshot of your blood glucose level. If the level is not what it should be, you can take preventative action that will help avoid potentially dangerous complications. Regular testing over an extended period of time can help you understand how well your diet, exercise, and medications are helping you regulate your blood glucose level. 

Every three to six months, visit your health care professional to share your results and have an A1C (average glucose level over a period of time) test performed. Your health care team will be better able to discuss your diabetes management plan.

 

Proper medication, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity are all important elements in finding a balance between your daily life and effective treatment for your diabetes.

Medication

In some patients diagnosed with diabetes, medication is required to help regulate blood glucose levels, high blood pressure, or cholesterol levels. 

Insulin is a major component of any diabetes treatment plan. If you regularly take insulin shots, make sure that you understand how to give yourself the injections, when to change the dosage, how to safely dispose of used syringes or needles, and how to properly store the insulin. As always, consult your health care provider before taking any medications that might react adversely with your insulin injections.

 

Diet

Good eating habits are important for anyone trying to live a healthier lifestyle. For people with diabetes, carefully watching what you eat – and when you eat it – can help maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
 

• Look for meats that are leaner and have a lower fat content.

• Cut down on sugars wherever possible; especially try to avoid soft drinks or juices that are high in sugar content.

• Most foods, specifically processed foods, already have more than enough salt in them; being very careful about the amount of salt you add to any food will help control your blood pressure.

• Eat plenty of healthy foods like lean meats, starchy vegetables, and fresh fruit

• Choose a variety of foods. You do not want to feel like you are eating the same thing, meal after meal.

• Eat smaller portions at meal time, and then add healthy snacks during the day; when you eat can be as important as what you eat.

• Be cautious with alcohol consumption, it can react with medications and cause serious side effects.

 

Planning ahead and creating your own list of healthy food options is a very effective way to help control blood glucose levels.

Regular exercise is part of any healthy lifestyle and for someone with diabetes it also helps the body effectively absorb glucose. Other benefits include lowering the chance of stroke or heart disease, increased flexibility in joints, stronger bones, and maintaining a healthier weight by reducing body fat. 

As with food choices, try to incorporate some variety into your activities and exercises. Do not feel like you have to be a jogger if you cannot stand the thought of jogging. A brisk walk or swim can achieve the same results. Find exercises and activities that you enjoy. If you are not already regularly exercising, begin slowly by adding a few minutes several times a week until you are ready for a more strenuous workout. Always check with your health care team before beginning any exercise program.

Be sure to check your blood glucose level after exercise, and be aware of any changes that you notice even several hours later. Vigorous exercise means that your body is using more energy, so monitor your blood glucose level. Have something handy to eat in case you need it; a quick snack can help bring your level up.

Regular Care from your Health Care Team

In addition to managing diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices, special care should be taken in several other health-related areas. Although a number of potentially dangerous complications can arise from diabetes, patients can minimize their risks.

Eye Care

About 95 percent of diabetic eye problems can be avoided with proper care and annual check-ups. If you already have an eye condition like blurred vision or flashing spots, consult your healthcare team immediately. Often, laser surgery can correct or slow down the damage.

Care of Kidneys

High blood glucose can hinder the kidney’s ability to filter waste fluids from the body. Ultimately, the kidneys can quit functioning altogether and go into failure. In order to avert kidney complications, you should have the following tests at least once a year:

 

• Micro-albumin test: testing urine for proteins

   

• Creatinine test: a blood test

   

• A1C test

   

• Blood pressure and cholesterol tests

 

Also, your doctor may suggest that you reduce the amount of protein you eat.

Foot Care

Prolonged diabetes can damage the nerves in the feet, so carefully monitoring your feet is imperative. Simple tips for foot care include:

 

• Check often for bruises, sores, infections, bumps, and red spots

   

• Wash your feet with warm water, and gently wipe dry

   

• Avoid using a heating pad or water bottle on the feet

   

• Keep toenails trimmed and clean

   

• Never forcefully try to remove a callous or corn

   

• Never walk barefooted, always wear slippers or shoes

   

• Frequently see a doctor to check your feet

   

• Immediately tell your doctor about any foot problems

 

Taking Control of your Life

Extra care and attention to your medication, diet, and physical activities, gives you the ability to better manage your diabetes.