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From Diabetes to Success: Mastering Life with Diabetes

Blood glucose test results indicating diabetes diagnosis

From Diabetes to Success: Mastering Life with Diabetes through Lifestyle, Diet, Exercise and more

When anyone is diagnosed with diabetes, it can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can give you knowledge and control. Here are three crucial ones to ask-

First: 'What are the types of Diabetes?'
Understanding whether you have Type 1 or Type 2, is crucial for its management.
In type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin. People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day. Type 1 diabetes occurs at every age and in people of every race, shape, and size.

In type 2 diabetes, the body is resistant to actions of insulin. Your body may make some insulin, but not enough. Some people can manage their normal blood glucose levels with healthy eating and exercise, others may need medicines to help manage it. About 9 out of 10 people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.

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Second: 'How often should I monitor my blood sugar and what is normal blood sugar level for adults?'

It's essential to know how regularly you need to check and what normal blood sugar level for adults should be. It is important to know what to do if your blood glucose level goes too high or too low. Your friends, family, and co-workers need to know too, in case you have a blood glucose emergency. A normal blood sugar level for adult should be <100mg/dL (fasting), <140mg/dL (post meal)

And third: 'What lifestyle changes should I consider?' This can include discussing topics like diet and exercise, stress management, and even sleep as these factors can greatly influence your blood sugar levels, weight and overall health. Regular exercise is crucial for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications. Regular exercise is crucial for managing diabetes and reducing the risk of complications. Stress management techniques such as meditation or mindfulness can help in reducing stress levels which can affect blood sugar levels. A healthy diet with a focus on whole foods, fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can also help in managing diabetes.

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What are some potential complications of diabetes and how can they be prevented?
Complications of diabetes can include heart disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye damage. It is important to manage diabetes effectively to prevent these complications. Managing blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can help in reducing the risk of complications. Regular medical check-ups and screenings can help in detecting any complications early and preventing further damage.

It’s essential to be curious, be proactive, and be informed about your health journey. One can ask the concerned doctor about the newer possibilities in diabetes management. By asking the right questions and being informed, one can take control of their diabetes and lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Together, let’s lower the weight of diabetes.

References:

  1. Davies MJ et al. Diabetes Care. 2022 Nov 1;45(11):2753-2786.
  2. ElSayed NA et al. Diabetes Care. 2023 Jan 1;46(Suppl 1):S111-S127.
  3. Kumar V et al. Int J Diabetes Dev Ctries. 2022 Dec 15;42(Suppl 1):1-30.
  4. Alison B.. Diabetes Care 1 May 2019; 42 (5): 731–754.
  5. Sheri R.. Diabetes Care 1 November 2016; 39 (11): 2065–2079.
  6. EmmaHook (no date a) Complications of diabetes, Diabetes UK. Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/complications (Accessed: 04 July 2023

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