Here are a few helpful tips to help you stay in control of managing your diabetes.
It Isn’t About Your Diabetes, It’s About Your Life
You should ask yourself:
- What do you love to do?
- What are the things about diabetes that keep you from doing it?
- Are there any solutions?
- Can making an action plan help, and if so, how can you make the plan?
It Isn’t Just About Blood Sugar
For people with diabetes, heart disease and stroke are the big killers. Here are a few tips on how to lower your chances:
- Quit using tobacco if you already do.
- Try and keep your blood pressure at or below 129/79.
- Talk to your doctor about taking a statin drug and about ACE-inhibitors.
- Ask your doctor about whether or not a daily aspirin is right for you.
- Start making healthy lifestyle choices.
Stress Makes Everything Worse. Especially with Diabetes
It can get in the way of you taking care of yourself and managing your diabetes properly.
Figure out what’s stressing you out. Learn ways to cope with and reduce daily stressors.
Exercise Makes It Better
Exercise is great for everybody, giving you more energy, reducing stress, helping you relax, and making it easier to fall asleep.
Stay Away From Diets And Make Healthier Food Choices
Think about which foods support good health, instead of judging food as either ‘good’ or ‘bad,’.
Make sure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals your body needs by eating a variety of foods. Have your dietitian make a meal plan that works for you.
Regular Checkups
Making regular doctor appointments and getting tests and screenings help you be an active contributor to your health care team.
Know the questions to ask and write them down.
Let your doctor know what you want to talk about at the beginning of the visit.
Ensure You’re Not Depressed
It’s not easy for people to intuitively know when they’re depressed. Here are a few common signs:
- Feeling low, hopeless, sad, or irritable
- Not enjoying activities that you loved.
- Feeling like you’re letting other people down.
- Unexplained exhaustion.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Feeling like life isn’t worth it.
Write Down Your Plan
Work closely with your doctor to design a diabetes care plan that’s tailored to your needs. Remember to include:
- Which medications you’re taking and why you’re taking them.
- Your daily targets for controllable numbers.
- Achievable goals.
- Your emergency contacts and when you should call them.
