Diabetes Care: ten ways to avoid complications. Diabetes is a serious disease. Following your diabetes treatment plan requires a permanent commitment. However, your effort is worth it. Careful diabetes management can reduce the risk of serious, even potentially life-threatening, complications.
Below are 10 ways to take an active role in diabetes care and enjoy a healthy future.
Members of your diabetes care team, such as a doctor or primary care provider, a diabetes educator, and a nutritionist, can help you learn the basics of diabetes and guide you. However, you are in control of your condition. Learn all about diabetes. Make healthy eating and physical activity part of your daily routine. Maintain a healthy weight. Monitor your blood sugar levels and follow your doctor's instructions. Take medication as prescribed. Seek help from your diabetes treatment team if needed.
Smoking increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and several diabetes-related complications, including:
Talk to your doctor about methods to quit smoking or other tobacco products.
Like diabetes, high blood pressure can damage blood vessels. High cholesterol is also concerning as it can make the damage caused by diabetes worse. Healthy low-fat eating and regular exercise can help control blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Your doctor may also recommend prescribed medications if needed.
In addition to routine physical and eye exams, have two to four diabetes checkups annually. During these, the doctor will ask about your diet and physical activity, check for diabetes-related complications such as kidney or nerve damage, and screen for other medical issues. The ophthalmologist will check for signs of cataracts, glaucoma, and retina damage.
Diabetes makes you more prone to certain illnesses. Routine vaccines can help prevent them. Ask your doctor about the following vaccines:
Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily, floss daily, and schedule dental checkups twice a year. Contact your dentist if you notice gum bleeding, redness, or swelling.
High blood sugar can reduce circulation and damage nerves in your feet. If untreated, injuries and blisters may cause severe infections.
If you have diabetes or cardiovascular risk factors like smoking or high blood pressure, your doctor may recommend daily low-dose aspirin to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Consult your doctor to determine if it’s suitable for you and the ideal dosage.
Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels depending on the quantity and whether you eat while drinking. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation:
Consume alcohol with food, and remember to count its calories in your daily total.
Stress may cause you to neglect your diabetes care routine. Set limits to manage stress, prioritize tasks, practice relaxation techniques, get enough sleep, and maintain a positive attitude. Taking control of your diabetes care enables you to live an active and healthy life.
The brands Beybies, Pura+, and NrgyBlast belong to Avimex de Colombia SAS. All products have quality certifications and valid sanitary registrations and are manufactured under the strictest international standards. Visit our Shop-On Line to purchase. All purchases come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee or refund policy.