5 Steps to Better Manage Your Diabetes
You have to monitor your blood sugar, eat the right foods, exercise, take your medication, and visit your medical provider regularly.
September 24th, 2013 by: Jennifer Hughes
Living with diabetes can be challenging!
You have to monitor your blood sugar, eat the right foods, exercise, take your medication, and visit your medical provider regularly.
It can feel overwhelming. Start by taking these 5 simple steps to improve your health.
1. Know your ABCs.
Make sure you know and track your A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Are your numbers on target or do they need improvement? Discuss your numbers with your health care provider.
2. Seek advice.
As your health care provider how often you should check your blood sugar. Work together to set individual goals for blood sugar numbers at different times of the day.
3. Think before you eat.
Are you eating the foods you enjoy that are also good for managing diabetes? Do you enjoy whole grains, vegetables, or fruits? Think about simple, delicious ways to eat healthfully.
4. Get active.
Use any kind of physical activity for fun, fitness, and stress management. Walk, swim, bike, or dance. Don't be afraid to sweat!
5. Laugh and relax.
Find your funny bone; seek out humor. And seek ways to quiet your mind. Take relaxing, deep breaths—not just before you go to sleep, but several times during the day.
Source: National Council on Aging
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