Home Outcome Improvement Centers Diabetes Taking Control
Diabetes
Taking Control; Photo of woman with outstretched arms
Monitoring Your Blood Sugar
You can't always feel if your blood sugar is high or low. That's why daily monitoring is important. Daily monitoring also helps you understand how the meals you eat affect your blood sugar levels. Your healthcare provider will show you how and when to check your blood sugar.
Eating Healthy
Good eating habits are important for everyone. They are especially important for people with diabetes. Choosing healthy meals and snacks can help you manage your blood sugar and can also help prevent other health problems. Diabetes doesn't have to stop you from eating your favorite foods and enjoying good meals.
Being Active
Fitness plays a special role for people with type 2 diabetes. Exercise can help your body use its own insulin better and improve your blood pressure. And, it can also help you manage your weight. This section outlines the benefits of exercise and gives tips on how you can work activity into your daily routine.
Taking Medication
You may take one or more diabetes drugs to help you keep your blood sugar in the target range. You may also take medication to control your blood pressure and lower your cholesterol levels. It's important to take your medications as directed and learn to manage a multi-medication drug regimen.
Managing Weight
Weight management is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes. Through healthy eating, some diabetic patients can decrease their need for medication.
Taking Care of Your Body
If you have diabetes, self-care gives you the power to manage your condition and feel your best. That means giving your body special care on a daily basis and limiting health risks that can cause problems in the future.
Working With Your Healthcare Provider
When you have diabetes, self-care is important. It's also important to work with your healthcare team to create a management plan and adjust as needed over time. Your healthcare team may include a number of providers including an endocrinologist, a registered dietitian, and a diabetes educator.
Special Concerns
Managing diabetes means developing a routine for things like meals, exercise, and taking medication. When you're sick or when you travel, you may need to vary your routine. You may also need to make changes to some of your activities, such as driving, to help you keep you and those around you safe.
Getting Support, Staying Motivated
Living with diabetes means making many changes in your life. At times, these changes may seem overwhelming. That's a normal response. When you feel down, reach out to your family and friends. Your healthcare team is also there when you have questions.

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