4 Steps to Manage Your Diabetes And Treatment For Healthy Life

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  • Step 1: Learn about diabetes. Step 2: Know your diabetes ABCs Step 3: Learn how to live with diabetes Step 4: Get routine care to stay healthy

Step 1:) Learn about diabetes.
What is diabetes ?

First off all you find out that what is Diabetes???? Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body processes glucose (sugar), a vital source of energy. It occurs when your blood sugar levels are consistently elevated, leading to various health complications. 

There are three main types of diabetes:

1. i) Type 1 Diabetes: Type1 diabetes occurs when your body is unable to produce insulin, a hormone essential for converting sugar (glucose) from the food you consume into energy. Daily insulin injections are necessary for managing this condition and sustaining life.

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   This is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body can't regulate blood sugar, and individuals with Type 1 diabetes require insulin therapy for survival.

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   ii) Type 2 Diabetes: This is the most common form of diabetes and is often associated with lifestyle factors such as poor diet, insufficient physical activity, and obesity. In Type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. It can often be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, insulin therapy. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes develops when your body either doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't use it effectively. Management methods may include medication in the form of pills or insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form of the condition.
   

   Both types of diabetes can lead to serious complications if not managed properly, including heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, vision impairment, and more. Monitoring blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and working with healthcare professionals are essential for effectively managing diabetes.

   iii) Gestational (jest-TAY-shun-al) diabetes: on the other hand, occurs in some pregnant women. While it often resolves after childbirth, both the mothers and their children are at an increased risk of developing diabetes later in life.

You are the primary member of your healthcare team.

An elderly man conversing with a younger woman and a medical professional.

You are the individual responsible for handling your diabetes on a daily basis. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the most effective ways to manage your diabetes for optimal health. Other professionals who can provide assistance include:

• Dental practitioner
• Specialist in diabetes care
• Educator specializing in diabetes
• Nutritionist
• Ophthalmologist
• Podiatrist
• Supportive friends and family
• Counselor focusing on mental health
• Registered nurse
• Nurse practitioner
• Pharmacist
• Social worker"

Take diabetes seriously. 

A man discusses his condition with his physician. You might have encountered individuals mentioning they have 'a hint of diabetes' or that their 'blood sugar is slightly elevated.' These expressions may imply that diabetes is not a grave ailment. However, this perception is incorrect. Diabetes is a significant health concern, but there are ways to effectively manage it.

Individuals diagnosed with diabetes must make prudent dietary choices, maintain a healthy body weight, engage in regular physical activity, and adhere to their prescribed medications even when feeling well. It demands considerable effort, and while it isn't effortless, the rewards are invaluable!"

Step 2:) Learn about diabetes 

Familiarize Yourself with Your Diabetes ABCs:

Engage in a conversation with your healthcare provider to understand how to manage your A1C, Blood pressure, and Cholesterol. This proactive approach can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing heart attacks, strokes, or other diabetes-related complications. 

A for the A1C Test (A-one-C). 

What is it? The A1C test measures your average blood sugar level over the past three months, offering a comprehensive view that daily checks cannot provide. 

Why is it important?

Monitoring your blood sugar levels over an extended period is crucial. Elevated blood sugar levels can detrimentally impact your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, feet, and eyes. 

What is the A1C Goal? 

For many individuals with diabetes, the target A1C level is below 7.However, your specific goal might differ; it's essential to ask your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

B for Blood Pressure.
What is it?

Blood pressure signifies the force of your blood against your blood vessels' walls.

Why is it important?

High blood pressure strains your heart, potentially leading to heart attacks, strokes, and damage to your kidneys and eyes.

What is the Blood Pressure Goal?

For most people with diabetes, the ideal blood pressure reading is below 140/90. However, your target might vary, so consult your healthcare provider to determine the right goal for you.

C for Cholesterol (ko-LESS-tuh-ruhl).

What is it?

Cholesterol in your blood includes LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) and HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein).

LDL, known as "bad" cholesterol, can accumulate and obstruct your blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
HDL, or "good" cholesterol, aids in removing the "bad" cholesterol from your blood vessels.

What Are the LDL and HDL Goals?

Consult your healthcare provider to establish your specific cholesterol targets. Individual goals vary, so it's crucial to personalize your cholesterol management plan. If you're over 40, your healthcare provider might recommend statin drugs for heart health.

Step 3: Learn how to Living Well With Diabetes

Eat Well: 

Nourish your body with a well-thought-out diabetes meal plan, carefully crafted in collaboration with your healthcare team. Opt for culinary delights that not only tantalize your taste buds but also align with diabetes-friendly principles.

When it comes to dairy, prioritize low-fat or skim milk and cheese, a smart move to reduce unnecessary fat intake while still relishing the goodness of dairy. Opt for the simplicity of water over sugary juices and regular sodas, allowing your body to stay refreshed and hydrated without the added burden of excessive sugars. By making these thoughtful dietary choices, you pave the way for a diabetes-friendly lifestyle, where every meal supports your overall health and vitality. 

Be Active:

• Commit to enhancing your daily activity levels by setting a goal to be more active most days of the week. Begin your journey with small steps, taking 10-minute walks three times a day. 
  

• Twice a week, focus on strengthening your muscles using a variety of exercises. You can incorporate stretch bands into your routine, engage in yoga sessions for flexibility, or participate in activities like heavy gardening, involving tasks such as digging and planting with tools. For an added challenge, consider integrating push-ups to enhance your upper body strength.

• Combine these activities with your personalized meal plan, meticulously designed in consultation with your healthcare team. This holistic approach, integrating nutritious eating habits with consistent physical activity, will enable you to attain or maintain a healthy weight effectively.

Step 4: Regular Check-ups For Optimal Health.

Take charge of your well-being by arranging biannual consultations with your healthcare team, a pivotal stride in proactive healthcare. During each visit, make certain to undergo essential health assessments tailored to your unique needs:

Blood Pressure Check: Regularly monitoring your blood pressure is instrumental in gauging your cardiovascular health. Vigilant tracking allows for the early detection of any underlying issues, facilitating timely interventions and effective management. Foot Check: Given diabetes' impact on foot health, routine foot examinations are indispensable. Your healthcare provider can meticulously examine your feet for signs of neuropathy, ulcers, or infections. Early identification and proper care can thwart complications, ensuring the well-being of your feet.

Weight Check: Monitoring your weight is pivotal for assessing your progress toward achieving or maintaining a healthy weight. Your healthcare team can provide invaluable insights into effective weight management strategies, which play a pivotal role in diabetes control and overall well-being.

Review of Your Self-Care Plan: Your personalized self-care plan encompasses diverse elements, including dietary choices, physical activity, medication management, and stress-relief techniques. Regularly revisiting this plan with your healthcare provider allows for tailored adjustments. This dynamic approach ensures that your self-care plan adapts alongside your progress and changing health requirements.