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Ten Ways to Take Care of Yourself If You Have Diabetes
- Begin exercising if you aren't already. If you are exercising, increase your activity level. Aim for at least 20 minutes daily of aerobic activity.
- Stop smoking! Smoking elevates your already-heightened risk of heart disease and other complications of diabetes.
- Follow the meal plan prescribed by your physician or dietitian. By eating six small meals a day instead of three big ones, you'll avoid after-meal blood sugar "spikes."
- Track your blood sugar levels at least once daily with a glucose monitor. It's immediate reinforcement if you're doing well -- and a red flag if you're not.
- Visit your doctor for a checkup at the prescribed intervals (usually quarterly or twice yearly).
- Have your hemoglobin A1C (a test that shows average blood sugar levels over 4 months) levels checked quarterly. Have a test for microalbuminuria (an early sign of kidney disease) yearly.
- Have an annual dilated eye exam by an ophthalmologist to detect early signs of eye problems associated with diabetes.
- Have twice-yearly dental checkups to catch periodontal disease and other oral complications of diabetes.
- Inspect your feet daily for blisters and sores you may not feel, due to poor circulation and nerve damage -- common diabetes complications.
- Remember that illness, surgery, pregnancy, or other stressful events can radically affect your blood sugar levels and may require a change in your medication.
Visit the Crum Creek Store for healthful snacks!