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Diabetes
is a chronic disease that can increase the risk of developing other
problems with the health. However there are many ways you can help to
keep your diabetes under control and lead a relatively normal life.
Living a healthy lifestyle, attending check up appointments and
managing your blood sugar levels successfully, go a long way to your
success in dealing with this illness.
Monitoring
blood sugars
In
order to maintain your diabetes successfully it is essential that you
are able to monitor your own blood sugar levels. There are a variety
of home machines that you are able to buy to give you accurate
indications of the level. Self monitoring has the advantages of
letting you be aware when your level is too low, will allow you to
monitor your level during times of sickness and gives you confidence
in the ability to successful keep your diabetes under control.
The
best way to get accurate readings is to monitor your levels at
different times during the day or week. The small machines designed
to be used in the home are very easy to use and include everything
you need to stay on top of the disease and help you to control it.
Get
a check-up
Attending
regular check ups is also a necessity, check ups are usually made
every 3-months, 6-months or yearly and help to prevent complications
from diabetes and make sure you are controlling it successfully
during the absence of check-ups. During a check-up you will have
blood tests to monitor your glucose level, test your level of
cholesterol, and have your blood pressure checked and your feet and
nerves. You should also schedule an eye examination to check for any
damage to the back of your eyes.
Other
risks
You
are more at risk of developing other illnesses along with your
diabetes, such as heart disease and problems with your circulation so
it is imperative that you look after your overall health. Maintaining
a healthy diet can go a long way to helping you keep your condition
under control; you should eat at regular intervals and include low in
fat while being high in fiber content. It is very important that you
watch the amount of sugar you eat in your diet and also restrict the
amount of salt you use in cooking and on food.
Developing
an exercise routine is also good for your condition, not only will it
help to keep your blood sugar level stable, but will also help you to
maintain a healthy weight.
If
you have diabetes then you shouldn’t smoke or drink alcohol,
smoking increases the risk of developing many other illnesses. If you
do drink then keep it to a minimum and never drink alcohol on an
empty stomach as this could lead to hypoglycemia.
You
should also buy home kits for testing your level of cholesterol and
blood pressure, the ideal for blood pressure is around 130/80 and
your cholesterol level should be below 4.0 if you suffer from
diabetes.
