Living with diabetes means learning how to manage the condition in a way that makes it possible to remain healthy and enjoy life. There are a number of factors that go into the process of diabetes management, with those factors varying somewhat depending on whether the individual is dealing with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes. There are a few basics that apply in both scenarios, including the monitoring of blood glucose levels, following a diabetic-friendly diet, taking medication or insulin as directed, and getting an equitable amount of exercise each day.
The monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential to the process of diabetes management. High blood glucose levels lead to problems with circulation, kidney failure and even the loss of vision. Low blood sugar can trigger what is known as a diabetic coma, a state in which the individual becomes unresponsive. If left untreated, the body may begin to continue shutting down, eventually leading to death. In order to avoid these types of extremes, testing blood sugar levels at one or two hour intervals after meals can make it easier to determine what is happening with glucose levels and respond appropriately.
Hand in hand with monitoring blood sugar levels is moderating the consumption of foods that contain carbohydrates. While everyone needs a certain amount of carbohydrates at each meal, diabetics must take care to focus on foods with complex carbohydrates and limit the intake of simple carbohydrates. Foods with complex carbohydrates are easier for the body to assimilate and use, and often provide nutrients not found in foods containing simple carbohydrates. Checking blood sugar levels at specific intervals after a meal is important to proper diabetes management and can help people determine how specific foods impact their systems and adjust their consumption accordingly.
Many diabetics are provided with insulin or oral medication as part of a physician-ordered diabetes management program. It is essential that the medication be taken according to the doctor’s instructions. If those instructions call for taking a dose of the medication after each meal, it is important to not skip doses. Doing so will lower the ability of the medication to produce the desired effect and keep glucose levels within an acceptable range. In addition, taking the medication as prescribed means less stress on internal organs affected by high blood sugar, allowing the individual to enjoy a higher quality of health over the years.
Exercise is also key to the process of diabetes management. The exercise program should be structured to work with the current fitness level of the individual. Even if other health issues prevent lifting weights or engaging in aerobic exercises, walking or riding a bicycle for at least thirty minutes each day will help in the management of diabetes and aid in weight control, which in turn helps reduce stress on the body and mind in general. When exercise is used in conjunction with a diet low in carbohydrates, proper use of medication, and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, the chances of living longer and enjoying life more are greatly enhanced.
