Key Factors to Manage your Diabetes

by Steveaustin
(New Jersey, United States)

Diabetes is a chronic disease which left uncontrolled can lead to organ damage and result in fatalities.

However, good diabetes management can help one live a fulfilling life.

Here’s a look at the key factors that you must take care of - blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle.

Measure and manage. Make it a habit to regularly record your blood sugar levels. This helps you gain an understanding of how what you do, or even what you eat affects your blood glucose and then you can adjust this based on the readings.

Blood pressure

Keep your blood pressure levels in check. When you have diabetes and B.P., you must treat it even more aggressively. When there is too much pressure, this is likely to damage arteries and increase your risk for heart disease. Besides this, it may also lead to kidney and eye disease.

Cholesterol

Regular blood tests measure your cholesterol and triglyceride (fat) levels and this is important. Too much of bad cholesterol can up your risk for heart disease. Go for a healthy nutritious diet and get adequate exercise.

Lifestyle changes

Consult a doctor or dietitian and make out a diabetes meal plan. Go ahead and choose foods that are lower in calories, sugar, saturated fat, trans fat and salt. Consume foods rich in fiber, such as whole grain breads, crackers, rice, whole grain cereals, or pasta. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables but make sure the fruits you choose are low in sugar and veggies are not ones that load you up on carbs such as potatoes.

Make it a habit to get exercise every day. Twice a week, make it a point to work out to increase your muscle strength.

Check your feet every day to make sure there are no blisters or cuts.

Take your medications regularly and keep up your doctor consultations.