Diabetes can be managed! Monitoring blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy diet and participating in a regular exercise program can make that possible.
Once you have received a diabetes diagnosis, it may be necessary to monitor and manage your blood sugar. Understanding the tests and results you receive will help you be proactive in your care.
A1C blood test
The A1C test is a blood test administered to collect information about blood sugar (glucose) over a 3-month period. A number below 5.7% indicates normal function. A number between 5.7% to 6.4% may indicate prediabetes, and anything over 6.5% indicates diabetes.
Daily blood glucose tests
If you are diagnosed with diabetes you may be asked to test your blood glucose daily, or many times throughout the day. This test measures your blood sugar level at a single moment in time. Writing down your readings between medical appointments may help your health care provider track your progress so changes can be made as needed. What you eat, when you eat, and your exercise habits may affect your glucose levels.
Your lifestyle
Making changes to your lifestyle in addition to tracking and managing your blood sugar may help you live your best life with diabetes.
Exercise. Exercise is one way to manage your diabetes. Experts suggest 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five times a week and two days a week of strength training.
Diet. Focus on eating a variety of healthy foods including lean protein, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables. Carbohydrates are not off limits, but because they can raise your blood sugar, it’s best to choose high fiber, whole food options, making sure they do not account for more than a quarter of your meal. It’s also important to remember to drink plenty of water to flush the glucose out of your system.
Stress. Where possible, try to reduce stress in your life.
Changes to your lifestyle don’t have to be big. Even small changes in your habits can help you on your path to living your healthiest life. We have resources to help you, call 1-877-692-2059, TTY 711, to learn more about our Disease Management program.