Controlling Diabetes

Living with diabetes can be challenging, but it can be managed. If you take care of yourself, you can be healthier and happier than ever! Controlling diabetes may not be easy, but there are several things that you can start doing that can make a big difference.

1. Exercise Daily
   Many pepole prefer to walk. But for people with foot problems, cycling, swimming, or water exercise may be a good alternative.
2. Eat Less if You Are Overweight
   Eating fewer calories improves our blood glucose even before we have any weight loss. Reaching an "ideal" weight can seem impossible, but every pound you take off gives you better control over your diabetes. Consulting with a dietician who specializes in diabetes can help you create an individualized meal plan.
3. Control Your Stress
   Controlling stress through relaxation techniques like meditation and stretching can reduce your blood glucose and blood pressure levels.
4. Take Your Medication
   Take the medicine that the doctor prescribes. Diabetes nurses can help you learn the easiest and most effective way to take your medication.
5. Keep Track of Your ABC's
   A stands for A1C, which measures your average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. B stands for Blood Pressure, and C stands for Cholesterol. Have you had these tests yet? What were the numbers? Knowledge of these things will give you power over your diabetes.
6. Learn
   Learn all you can about self-managing diabetes. The nurses and dieticians at the Alta Bates Summit Diabetes Center are all Certified Diabetes Educators and can provide you with the tools you need to stay healthy.