Managing diabetes is essential to staying healthy. With regular check-ups and a few lifestyle changes, you can keep your diabetes under control and improve your overall well-being
Why It’s Important:
When diabetes isn’t managed well, it can lead to serious health issues like heart disease, kidney damage, vision problems, and nerve damage. By monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly and making some simple changes to your daily habits, you can prevent these complications and enjoy a better quality of life.
What to Expect:
Living with diabetes means paying close attention to how you care for your body. Here’s a quick guide to some key areas of diabetes management:
- Blood Sugar Monitoring: Checking your blood sugar levels helps you understand how different foods, activities, and medications affect your body. Regular monitoring is a powerful tool to help prevent highs and lows in blood sugar.
- Medication: Many people with diabetes take medications to help regulate blood sugar. Be sure to follow your prescribed plan, as medications work best when used consistently. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any questions about your medications or need help with refills.
- Healthy Eating: Diet plays a huge role in managing diabetes. Focus on a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Limiting sugary foods and drinks can also help keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin better, which helps manage blood sugar levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling are great ways to stay active.
- Routine Check-Ups: Seeing your healthcare provider regularly allows you to check your A1C levels (a long-term measure of blood sugar), monitor for any complications, and adjust your management plan as needed.
Tips for Living Well with Diabetes
Managing diabetes can feel challenging at times, but small changes can make a big difference. Here are some tips for living well:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out excess sugar from your blood.
- Plan Your Meals: Meal planning can help you avoid unhealthy choices and control portion sizes.
- Stay Consistent: Try to eat meals and snacks around the same time each day to keep blood sugar steady.
- Get Support: Talk to family, friends, or join a support group to stay motivated and share tips with others managing diabetes.
PHC Services for Diabetes Management
Primary Health Care (PHC) offers comprehensive diabetes management services at our locations in Ames, Des Moines, and Marshalltown. Our team provides personalized care, including education, medication management, and support to help you stay on track. We accept Medicaid, uninsured patients, and private insurance, and we also offer a sliding fee scale to ensure that care is accessible to all.
Take Charge of Your Health
Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making a few small changes and working with your healthcare provider, you can take control of your health and live a full, active life. For more resources, check out information from the American Diabetes Association and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
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