Steps to Control Diabetes

There are many ways you can take to control your diabetes and get your blood glucose (sugar) under control:

Know your blood glucose (sugar) numbers. Get a complete picture of your blood glucose (sugar) control with the hemoglobin A1c test and the finger-stick test using a blood glucose (sugar) meter.
Reach your blood glucose (sugar) goal. Consult your health care provider on how to make healthy lifestyle choices.
Keep your blood glucose (sugar) under control.
Most likely, your physician has prescribed a treatment plan for you that includes testing your blood sugar on a regular basis.

Tips to Control Blood Sugar

1. To Start

• Follow Your physicians recommendations for how often you should test your blood glucose levels.
• Keep a record of your blood tests, medicines, and daily events and review it with your health care provider.
• Take your diabetes medicine as prescribed.
• Eat foods to control your blood glucose (sugar). See a dietitian to create a meal plan that is right for you.
• Get physical activity. If you haven't been active, start slowly. Good activities are walking and swimming. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
• Check your feet for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Call your health care provider right away about any sores that won't heal.

2. To Keep in Mind Along the Way

• Stay at a weight that is right for you. Ask your health care provider what you should weigh.
• Treat low blood glucose (sugar) quickly with special tablets or gel made of glucose.
• Don't smoke. Talk to your health care provider about ways to quit.
• Learn more about diabetes and diabetes self-care. Ask your health care provider to suggest a dietitian and a diabetes educator to help you manage your diabetes.
• Seek support from family and friends or join a diabetes support group. Call your local hospital or health department to find a support group.

 
3. To Do With Your Health Care Providers

• Write down your questions and take them with you to each visit.
• Ask for a hemoglobin A1c test at least twice a year and know what your test result means.
• Ask for regular blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and other blood fat tests.
• Have your feet, eyes, and kidneys checked at least once a year or more often if you have problems.
• See your dentist at least twice a year. Tell your dentist you have diabetes.

 
4. Set Goals You Can Reach

• Break a big goal into small steps. If you plan to increase your physical activity, start by taking one 5-minute walk three times a week. Then try walking longer or more often.
• Make changes that you can stick with for the rest of your life. If you want to lose weight and keep it off, be active and limit portion sizes. Don't just go on a "diet."

5. Create a Plan to Deal With Diabetes

• Think about all your reasons for staying in control of your blood glucose (sugar). Make a list and post it where you see it often.
• Figure out what can tempt you to slip up when it comes to blood glucose (sugar) control. Decide now how you will handle these events next time.
• Reward yourself for staying in control. Rent a movie, buy a plant, or spend time with a friend.
• Ask for help from friends and family when you're down or need someone to talk to.