Diabetes is a lifelong disease that makes it harder for the body to turn food into energy. It can cause sugar to build up in the blood; and high levels of blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the heart, kidneys and eyes as well as nerves in the feet. There are 2 types of diabetes: Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children, teenagers or young adults. It is treated with insulin and diet. Type 2 is more common and is usually found in over 40 and overweight people who may have a family history. Diet, exercise and medication are the usual treatments.
A is for A1C
This is a blood test that shows average blood sugar for the past 2 to 3 months.
B is for Blood Pressure
Controlling your blood pressure is very important, especially if you have type 2 diabetes.
Your blood pressure should be checked each time you visit the doctor and should be no more than 135/80.
C is for Cholesterol
Your cholesterol numbers tell the amount of fat in your blood.
HDL can protect the heart.
LDL can damage the heart by clogging arteries and lead to heart disease.
Check your cholesterol at least once per year.
Symptoms of Diabetes
Increased thirst
Increased Urination
Increased hunger
Blurred vision
Fatigue
Dry Mouth
Unexplained weight loss
Numbness in hands or feet
Impotence
Dark, velvety looking skin in the armpit or back of neck
Managing Diabetes
Healthy Food Choices
Healthy eating habits are very important for people with diabetes. Losing even 10 pounds will improve your body’s ability to use sugar for energy. This is turn will help reduce the chance of complications with your eyes and kidneys.
Carbohydrates have the greatest effect on blood sugar. They are found in foods such as fruit, bread, potatoes, pasta, milk and sweets. Eating less salt and less fat will help too.
Try to eat a variety of non-starch colourful vegetables and lean protein. Also try to minimize desserts.
Exercise Matters
When it comes to diabetes, fitness counts. Getting fit can help you lose extra weight, lower blood pressure, and control blood sugar.
Try to get in at least 30 minutes per day. It doesn’t have to be all at once and it doesn’t need to be intense. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine: walking, gardening, housework, dancing and swimming are all beneficial.
Know the ABCs of Diabetes
Diabetes is a lifelong disease that makes it harder for the body to turn food into energy. It can cause sugar to build up in the blood; and high levels of blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the heart, kidneys and eyes as well as nerves in the feet. There are 2 types of diabetes: Type 1 is usually diagnosed in children, teenagers or young adults. It is treated with insulin and diet. Type 2 is more common and is usually found in over 40 and overweight people who may have a family history. Diet, exercise and medication are the usual treatments.
A is for A1C
B is for Blood Pressure
C is for Cholesterol
Symptoms of Diabetes
Managing Diabetes
Healthy Food Choices
Healthy eating habits are very important for people with diabetes. Losing even 10 pounds will improve your body’s ability to use sugar for energy. This is turn will help reduce the chance of complications with your eyes and kidneys.
Carbohydrates have the greatest effect on blood sugar. They are found in foods such as fruit, bread, potatoes, pasta, milk and sweets. Eating less salt and less fat will help too.
Try to eat a variety of non-starch colourful vegetables and lean protein. Also try to minimize desserts.
Exercise Matters
When it comes to diabetes, fitness counts. Getting fit can help you lose extra weight, lower blood pressure, and control blood sugar.
Try to get in at least 30 minutes per day. It doesn’t have to be all at once and it doesn’t need to be intense. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine: walking, gardening, housework, dancing and swimming are all beneficial.
Source: Walk-In Medical Clinic, Nassau, Bahamas