Living With Diabetes

Understanding Blood Sugar and A1C

Blood sugar, or blood glucose, is the main sugar found in your blood. It comes from the food you eat and is the body’s primary source of energy. Whether it is Type 1 or Type 2, keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range is essential for your overall well-being.

Signs of High vs. Low Blood Sugar

Knowing the signs of high and low blood sugar can be very helpful. Hyperglycemia is the medical term that describes blood sugar levels that are too high. You might feel very thirsty, need to urinate more often than usual, or feel tired. On the other hand, when blood sugar is too low, it is called hypoglycemia. You may feel shaky, sweaty, or confused. It is important to talk with your doctor about what to do if you experience any of these signs.

A1C and Blood Glucose Monitoring

You may have heard your doctor discuss your A1C levels. A1C is a blood test that shows your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. It gives a longer-term picture of your blood sugar control. Regularly checking your blood sugar at home with a blood glucose meter can help you and your doctor see how different foods, activities, and medications affect your levels on a day-to-day basis. These two tests work together to provide a complete view of your diabetes management.

Meal Planning and Medications

Managing diabetes often involves paying close attention to what you eat and taking your medications as prescribed.

Diabetic Meal Planning and Carb Counting

Thinking about what you eat can be a positive step. One helpful strategy is to focus on balanced meals that include a variety of foods, such as lean proteins, healthy fats, and a range of vegetables.

Carbohydrates, or carbs, can strongly affect blood sugar, so learning about counting carbs can be very helpful. This means keeping track of how many carbs you eat to help keep your blood sugar levels steady. Your doctor or a registered dietitian can give you guidance and customized meal planning ideas that fit your lifestyle. You can ask your doctor for a referral to a dietitian if you feel it may be helpful.

Insulin vs. Oral Medications

Your doctor may recommend medicine to help manage your diabetes. Some people take pills that help their bodies use insulin better or lower blood sugar.

Others may require insulin, a hormone given by an injection. Insulin helps the body use glucose for energy. The type of medication that is right for you depends on many factors, and it is essential to follow your doctor’s guidance on this topic. It is also crucial to talk with your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements.

Diabetes and Foot Care

Diabetes can affect circulation and nerves, especially in the feet. Taking good care of your feet is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health.

Washing your feet with warm water and a mild soap, drying them carefully, and checking them for any sores, blisters, or cuts is a helpful daily routine. You may also want to use a lotion to keep your skin from getting too dry, but avoid putting it between your toes. Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well and don’t rub is also a good idea. Some shoe companies also make specialized orthotic shoes for those with diabetes. If you notice any changes or have a foot problem, it’s best to contact your doctor right away.

Regular Check-Ups With Your Healthcare Team

Managing diabetes is a team effort. This team may include a primary care physician, a certified diabetes care and education specialist, a registered dietitian, and an eye doctor. Having this type of care team gives you strong support and helps everyone stay on the same page in managing your diabetes.

Regular physical exams, eye exams, and dental check-ups are more than routine visits. They can help you manage your diabetes by catching problems or complications early. These visits are an important part of staying healthy and give you an active role in your care.

Physical Activity in Diabetic Management

Physical activity can help the body use insulin more effectively and lower blood sugar levels. Even simple activities, such as brisk walking, swimming, or gardening, are beneficial.

Here are some simple tips and suggestions to make physical activity more achievable:

• Aim for a certain number of minutes of activity each week.
• Take a short walk after a meal.
• Dance to your favorite music.
• Play a physically active game with your family or friends.

You can also try more structured exercises, such as:

• Aerobics
• Strength training
• Yoga

Always talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. This is especially important for older adults.

Stress and Mental Health With Diabetes

It’s essential to recognize that living with a chronic condition like diabetes can be stressful. Stress can affect blood sugar levels. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times.

Some coping strategies and suggestions for managing stress are:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Spending time in nature
• Connecting with friends and family

Healthy Habits for Overall Well-Being

Many different things can contribute to well-being. It’s crucial to:

• Get enough sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid smoking

These holistic factors can help keep your diabetes under control and are essential to your overall health.

Caring for Someone With Diabetes

Providing care for someone with diabetes is a big job, but helping with the daily maintenance of their disease can help them feel less overwhelmed. It’s important to first ask which areas they need help with and to listen to how they are currently handling these tasks. It benefits you both to understand what they already do and where you can provide assistance.

Here are some ways you can help make things less stressful for them:

• Go with them to their appointments and make notes to help remind them of their doctor’s instructions.
• Understanding the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) helps you recognize when they may require immediate treatment. Remember, signs and symptoms may be more specific and different for your friend or loved one.
• Learn how to use a blood glucose monitor to assist them with testing.
• Encouraging a low-carbohydrate diet and help with grocery shopping and meal prep can simplify food choices. You may even want to follow the same plan as your loved one, as lifestyle changes are easier when made together.
• Planning activities that you can do together to keep moving makes exercising less of a chore and more of a shared experience.

Remembering to care for yourself is also an important part of caregiving. You cannot help them if you are not feeling well yourself. Keeping your personal health on track benefits you both.

Final thoughts for you to take away…

Living with diabetes is a journey, and having a good understanding of the disease can make the path feel more manageable. We hope this information has been helpful for you. Remember to work closely with your health care team, including your doctor and other specialists, to create a plan that works best for you.