November 2023 Health Tip

by J. Renee Livsey, RN-BC |  November 1, 2023

   
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It affects about 37 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart. But taking charge of your health may help you prevent diabetes health problems. You can manage your diabetes and live a long and healthy life by taking care of yourself each day.
 
Type I diabetes occurs when the pancreas makes little or no insulin. If you have type 1 diabetes, you’ll need to take insulin shots every day to survive. Monitoring your blood glucose level is extremely important if you take insulin. 
 
Type 2 diabetes occurs when your body doesn’t use insulin well and can not keep blood sugar at normal levels. Some people can control their blood sugar levels with healthy eating, exercise, and weight loss, but others may need medication or insulin to manage it. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed with healthy lifestyle changes.
 
Blood glucose monitoring.
Checking your glucose levels as directed by your provider is a lifetime commitment, especially if you have Type 1 diabetes. The goal is to prevent too high or too low glucose levels, which can be very dangerous.
 
Reach or maintain a healthy weight.
If you are overweight, losing just 10 pounds can help keep your blood sugar levels in the desired range. For type 2 diabetics, losing weight could even mean going into diabetes remission.
 
Work with your health care team.
Managing diabetes takes a team. Your health care team may include your Primary Care Provider, an Endocrinologist, a Dietitian, and don’t forget your family members. When you see members of your health care team, ask questions. Write a list of questions you have before your visit, so you do not forget what you want to ask.  Working closely with your team to control your diabetes will help achieve your blood glucose goals.