Don’t Let Your Diabetes Take Over! TAKE CHARGE of Your Health by Working with Your Primary Care Provider
April 26, 2022
If you are diagnosed with diabetes, don’t let it discourage you from living a happy and healthy life. Learning how to take care of your diabetes starts the minute you are diagnosed. As long as you are aware and educated, you’re on your way to effectively managing your health. Anyone can benefit from healthy choices, regardless of their risk for diabetes. This is a great opportunity to work on a new habit throughout the month.
Here are a few reminders that may help you manage your diabetes successfully:
- Eat healthy: Consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Maintain a diet that consists of less sugar and salt.
- Exercise frequently: Try to stay physically active by walking for 10 to 30 minutes each day. Exercise will not only make you feel better but will make it easier to control your diabetes.
- Take your medication: Take your medication as prescribed by your provider. It may help keep blood sugar levels normal.
- Monitor your blood sugar: Track your blood sugar regularly to understand how different foods, activities, and medicine affect your blood sugar levels, and keep a log to track any changes.
- Manage stress: Find ways to relieve stress – through journaling, moving your body, or hobbies that you enjoy. Do your best every day, and don’t beat yourself up if you fall short of meeting a goal. Be good to yourself!
Regular Tests Help Prevent Complications
Although you are self-managing your diabetes, which includes watching your diet, remembering your medications, and monitoring your blood sugar, you also need to see your provider regularly and have necessary tests completed. These tests help prevent against any possible complications related to your nervous system, kidneys, eyes, or heart.
|
Test |
What it measures |
Frequency |
|
HbA1c |
Blood sugar over the course of several weeks |
Twice a year (minimum) |
|
Kidneys |
How well the kidneys are functioning |
Once a year |
|
Eye exam |
Potential damage to the blood vessels of the retina |
Once a year |
|
Cholesterol |
Cardiovascular health; the condition of the blood vessel walls |
Once a year |
|
Blood pressure |
Cardiovascular health |
Each provider’s visit |
Starling’s Diabetes Educators Are Available to Guide You
If you feel like you need help with your diet, monitoring your blood sugar, or you had a high A1c, Starling has Certified Diabetic Educators who serve as a valuable resource. They offer 1:1 counseling and free in-person and group classes each month. To learn more, visit www.starlingphysicians.com/diabetes/.
Bottom line — diabetes control is certainly worth the effort. Our providers care about you and your health. We are here for you every step of the way. Please call your PCP’s office today to schedule your appointment.