These five steps can help you control your diabetes

July 25, 2018

“A to Z from Our Family Medicine Doctors at UT East Texas” column
Published Wednesday, July 25, 2018, in the Gladewater Mirror

By: Rezwana Rahman, DO

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It’s no secret: diabetes is one of the most common serious diseases in the United States.

On average, about 4,000 Americans learn they have this chronic condition each day, the American Diabetes Association says. Learning how to manage it is key.

If you have diabetes, here are five steps to control it.

Clean up your diet. Eliminate excess sugar and starch, such as rice, pasta, bread, potatoes, sodas, juices, and desserts.

These high carbohydrate foods can stress your body’s ability to process sugar and worsen your diabetes. Eat more lean proteins, vegetables, and good fats.

Exercise. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate to high intensity exercise every week. Include both aerobic exercise and strength training. Exercise helps you maintain a healthy weight, improves heart function, and regulates blood sugar.

Keep a record of your blood sugar levels. It is important that you measure your blood sugar as directed and write the results in a log.

Such a record allows your doctor to evaluate how well your diabetes is controlled and then determine if any adjustments are needed, especially any changes in your medication.

Get an annual eye exam. Diabetes can lead to serious health problems, including nerve and kidney damage, as well as vision problems.

It is one of the leading causes of blindness in America; to lower your risk, have your eyes checked annually by an eye doctor.

See your physician or healthcare provider for regular follow-ups. During these visits, he or she can check your logs, adjust your medications, perform a physical exam, and order routine labs.

This is also the time to regroup and discuss your next step in managing your diabetes and to ask any questions that you may have.