Avoiding Diabetes Problems

Diabetes Diet Tips

• Plan your meals and snacks
• Keep your daily meal plan balanced
• Watch your diabetes diet to make sure your cholesterol and triglyceride levels stay near normal ranges
• Reduce foods that are high in saturated fat, cholesterol and trans fat.
• Decrease the total amount of fat in your diet to 30 percent or less of your total daily calories.
• Balance your daily food intake with exercise and diabetes medication to keep blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible.
  
  

  Watch Your Blood Pressure

  Take your blood pressure regularly. Make sure your blood pressure does not go higher than 130/80. If your blood pressure exceeds 130/80, call your doctor. You may need medication to lower your blood pressure.
  
  

  Check for Diabetes Problems

  Each day, check your skin and feet for visible diabetes problems. Make sure your doctor checks your eyes regularly. See your dentist every six months to prevent gum or mouth problems.
  
  

  Plan Ahead to Manage Diabetes

  Planning ahead is important for managing diabetes and avoiding diabetes problems. Be sure to do the following:
  • Exercise regularly and be physically active throughout your day
  • Take your prescribed diabetes medication. If you are unsure how to take it, meet with your doctor or diabetes educator for additional instructions.
  • Monitor your blood sugar levels throughout the day.
  • Keep your appointments with your doctor and other health care providers.
  • Be sure to have the recommended tests your doctor orders.
  Controlling blood sugar levels is crucial to preventing or reducing any serious diabetes problems. Talk with your doctor and ask about steps you can take today to manage your diabetes.
  
  
  Last Updated: 02/08/2010
  This content was created and produced exclusively by the editorial staff of Vital Healthcare Group. www.VitalHealthCareGroup.com; all rights reserved.