Diabetes care can be challenging because our bodies’ systems are so interconnected, and diabetes management can become even more difficult as we age. While it can seem complicated, a few tips from this article, along with consistent observation, can help you learn how to manage diabetes.
The value-based care partner providers listed on NewPrimaryCare.com™ are committed to walking with you, to ensure that your diabetes care is personal and professional. Here are a few diabetes care tips we’ve compiled to get you started:
Food and alcohol tips
1) Track your carbohydrate intake.
Likely, you’ve heard it before: carbs have a major impact on your glucose levels. When it comes to diabetes management, this is one of the most helpful things you can do. Why? It can prevent high glucose levels in your blood and affect your insulin dosage, if medication is needed.
2) Choose your carbs wisely.
Did you know that carbohydrates fall into three categories: sugar, starch and fiber? To best manage your diabetes, you’ll want a healthy mix of carbohydrates that have starch and fiber. In fact, some fiber-rich foods, like whole grains, fruits and vegetables even work to stabilize your glucose levels.
3) Avoid sugary food and drinks.
Foods with added sugar are often high in carbohydrates and empty calories. Calories are a measure of energy, so you will want to make sure they count for nutritional value.
4) Limit your alcohol intake.
Since the liver controls the glucose in your blood, it’s best to limit the added work of processing the alcohol in your bloodstream. In short: if the liver is processing the alcohol in your bloodstream, it may not be able to control the glucose needed to balance blood sugar levels. Choose light beer or dry wines, which have less sugar.
5) Check your glucose level before you go to sleep.
Alcohol can often result in low blood sugar even 24 hours after it’s consumed. To avoid this, check your glucose level. Having a snack before bed (if it’s lower than 100 mg/dL) can prevent hyperglycemia, or low blood sugar.
Exercise tips
6) Create an exercise plan and stick to it.
When you move your body, your muscles convert glucose into energy. The harder you exercise, the longer you will see results in your glucose levels. But you don’t have to run a marathon—even cleaning around the house or garage can help to improve your glucose levels.
7) Keep an eye on your glucose levels.
Exercise can lower your blood sugar level, so talk with your doctors to know what glucose levels are safe for you.
8) Drink plenty of water.
Dehydration can cause glucose to become more concentrated, leading to higher levels in your bloodstream. To avoid this, be sure to stay hydrated.
9) Always have a small snack nearby.
This tip is helpful all the time but especially when you exercise.
Food and exercise are two of the most effective forms of diabetes management. But there are other ways to care for your diabetes as you age. Talk with your doctors about how medication, illness and other factors can affect your diabetes.
Get Support for Diabetes Management
With NewPrimaryCare.com, you can find primary value-based care that’s personal. Partner providers listed on NewPrimaryCare.com offer a health care experience focused on forming a meaningful connection to understand your unique needs. Find a Medicare doctor near you.
