It’s up to YOU!
Controlling diabetes is up to you! Sure, you have the help of your diabetes care team, but unlike other chronic diseases, how well your condition is managed is mostly up to the patient.
These behaviours can be customised to your specific treatment plan, but together they form a foundation for successfully managing all types of diabetes.
The seven self-care behaviours set the framework for optimal self-management. Here we will explore each area in further detail:
Healthy Coping
Diabetes patients do not have the option to neglect their condition. It is vital for people with diabetes to have healthy outlets for feelings like anger, anxiety, and depression. Your mental health is directly related to your overall health and how well you manage diabetes. It’s okay to not be okay and always ask for help when you need it.
Taking Medication
Sometimes a balanced diet and exercise aren’t enough to manage diabetes and medication is needed. When you’re prescribed diabetes medication, you must follow the prescription and your doctor’s orders. Also, be mindful of what medications can be taken together, what time they should be taken, and if they should be taken with food.
Being Active
Exercise is essential to our overall health and managing diabetes. Adults should aim for at least thirty minutes of exercise, at least five days a week. Exercise doesn’t have to mean running miles or squatting heavy weights- it can be walking the dog, doing yoga, dancing, or swimming. There’s no wrong way to exercise, talk to your diabetes care team about what options can work for you.
Healthy Eating
A balanced diet is crucial for balancing blood sugar, keeping your A1C in range, and managing diabetes. When building a balanced meal, follow the Diabetes Plate Method. This method can be used as a visual guide to understanding portion sizes. If you feel stuck on what to eat with diabetes, whether you’re newly diagnosed or living with the condition, working with a nutritionist can be beneficial. They can provide you with a customised meal plan and help you stick to it!
Monitoring
It’s not about where you’re at, it’s about where you’re going! As it relates to diabetes, it’s not only about your current blood sugars, it’s about where it’s headed. Check your blood sugars often and keep track of your findings. This data can be used to address problems you may be having with self-care.
Reducing Risks
When diabetes is not properly controlled, it can wreak havoc on the human body. From your eyes to your feet and everything in between! Talk to your diabetes care team about your specific health risks and what you can do to prevent complications.
Problem Solving
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or living with the condition, things change over time. Your body, your life, your condition. Learn how to identify the problem, find solutions and take action with the help of your diabetes care team. Remember, sometimes the first solution doesn’t work and you must try something else. Be open to trying new things and be honest with your healthcare providers when it comes to how well you’re able to self-manage.
If you are struggling with any of these seven areas or need help managing your diabetes, we can help. Call us: 702-9310.