Small Steps, Big Results
Living Healthy with Diabetes
More than 30 million Americans live with diabetes. It’s caused by too much sugar in the blood, which can lead to symptoms like thirst, fatigue, slow-healing sores, or frequent infections.
Managing diabetes doesn’t mean giving up on the life you want. With proper care, resources, and a commitment to healthy habits, you can maintain control and improve your overall well-being.
Daily Management Tips to Help You Feel Better and Take Control
You have the power to take charge of your health. Small steps each day can make a big difference in how you feel and how well you manage your diabetes.
Focus on the Essentials
- Check your blood sugar as recommended
- Take medications with breakfast
- Plan balanced meals to keep your energy steady
Plan to Be Well
- Eat meals around the same time each day
- Keep healthy snacks available
- Schedule time for physical activity you enjoy
Monitor and Adjust
- Track your blood sugar patterns
- Note how certain foods or activities affect your levels
- Share this information with your doctor at each visit
Practice Self-Care
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Get enough rest each night
- Manage stress through relaxation, stretching, or deep breathing
Reducing the Risk of Diabetes Complications
“Statistics show that Type 2 diabetes is still on the rise and that it’s mainly affecting the most socially and economically underserved populations. For this reason, it’s critical to focus on the control and treatment of diabetes to lower the risk of complications in our patients in Nassau County”, says Bernice Baronville, RN, a nurse with Harmony Healthcare Long Island.
Taking good care of yourself helps prevent long-term health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision issues, and nerve or foot damage.
Simple Ways to Lower Risks
Schedule Annual Eye Exams
Regular eye exams help doctors detect changes early, before vision loss occurs. Patients can develop retinopathy, which involves reduced oxygen to the retina, swelling, and bleeding. If left untreated, this can result in blindness or severe visual impairment.
Monitor Blood Sugar and A1c Levels
Daily blood sugar checks show how your body reacts to food and activity. The A1c test gives a longer-term view of your average blood sugar over about three months, which helps your healthcare provider to make treatment decisions.
Avoid Smoking
“Smoking puts stress on the circulatory system, especially the feet, which are the farthest parts of the body from the heart,” says Dr. Matther Nester, a podiatrist with HHLI.
Check Your Feet Daily
Before putting on your shoes or socks, examine your feet for any color changes, swelling, or other differences from the previous day. Diabetes can compromise nerve supply to the feet and result in a condition called peripheral neuropathy, which can lead to problems with sensation and wound healing.
Eat a Balanced Diet
For good eye health, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, other seafood, nuts, and seeds), and probiotics, which help regulate the gastrointestinal system and balance sugar levels.
Maintain a Healthy Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI)
Your Body Mass Index (BMI) can helps estimate whether you’re underweight, at a healthy weight, or carrying excess weight that could strain your heart and affect blood sugar control. HHLI’s nutritionists can help you find practical ways to improve your diet.
Stay Active Each Day
Exercise supports circulation and can lower blood glucose levels. “Managing one’s diabetes effectively is the cornerstone of good foot, vision, and overall health,” says Dr. Nester.
A Strong Doctor-Patient Relationship is Key
Regular visits to your doctor are a great time to discuss your diabetes, talk about how you’re feeling, review your medications, and ask questions. Working closely with your healthcare providers keeps your treatment plan on track and helps you stay motivated and supported.
