Key Steps To Managing Your Diabetes

By Author: Ashwarya
Total Articles: 57
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Be smart and take advantage of the fact that you play a huge role in blood glucose (sugar) control. Yes, it does require you to think about your actions moreso than the average person, however, it will be more than worth it. With diabetes, you need a support system: doctors with different specialties, certified diabetes educators, nurses, dietitians, exercise specialists, psychologist and especially family and friends. Share your feelings and do your best!

Consider and moderate carbohydrates (starch, fruit, milk) at each meal/snack and distribute them throughout the day.
Moderate carbohydrate consumption should be approximately 30-60 grams per meal. Find out the effect of that amount on YOUR blood sugar levels to determine any changes necessary. Slower digesting foods (low glycemic index/load) are best for a slower rise in blood sugar over a longer period of time. You DO NOT want a rapid rise in blood sugar unless you are treating a low blood sugar! Examples are: higher fiber/dense carbohydrates (brown rice, wholegrain bread/rye/pumpernickel, high fiber cereals, sweet potatoes, etc.), protein ...
... (heart healthier choices are fish, shellfish, poultry, lean meat) and fat (heart healthier choices are nuts, nut butters, olive and canola oil, avocados).

Aim for approximately 15-30 grams of carbohydrates for your snacks (by testing before the next meal you will see its effect on your glucose level). Vary the times you carry out blood glucose testing otherwise directed by your healthcare team. Look for patterns by recording your numbers over a period of time. Test before meals and 2 hours after the start of a meal. Glucose should rise no more than approximately 50 points. If it rises higher, you may need to decrease your carbohydrates (but always eat them!), have your medication adjusted, reduce stress or exercise! Another good time to test your glucose is at bedtime and the next morning. Keep a journal/logbook to share this information with your healthcare team to stay in your best control. Balance your blood sugar: eat every 3-4 hours to avoid fluctuating (high and low) blood sugar. Eating more frequently usually prevents overeating at the next meal and helps to raise your metabolism.

Leave at least a 2-hour window between your meals and snacks. Blood glucose may be the highest 2 hours after your meal so eating that soon may send it up even higher. Know your A1c! This is a 3-month blood sugar average that gives you insight into your diabetes control. 7% or less is recommended by the American Diabetes Association (equal to an average of 154 mg/dL). You can have this blood test done at a laboratory or with an at home A1c kit. Don't be in the dark. Find out what you don't know by testing your blood sugar. It will give you valuable information to help in your journey of self-management. Diabetic testing supplies are available. Use them wisely. Since everyone with diabetes is unique, it is important to find out what is affecting your blood sugar and to what degree. Food, exercise, stress, medication, hormone levels and how your body operates all have an affect on your blood sugar level. By testing, you provide yourself and your healthcare team information to help determine a new plan of action if necessary.