Managing your Diabetes

 

Looking after your health is a very important part of keeping your diabetes under control. This is why it is very important to have regular check ups with your doctor or diabetic nurse. This will help you to stay healthy.

 

Your diabetic nurse or doctor will want to see you at least once or twice a year. These checks are really important. They give you a chance to discuss changes you can make that will be good for you and help you to have a healthy lifestyle.

 

You will usually have a blood test (Hba1c) that measures your average blood glucose level over the last few months. You should also get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked.

 

If your blood pressure or cholesterol levels are too high you may need to go on medication. This will help to prevent complications later on such as high blood pressure, heart disease and the risk of strokes in the future.

 

You will also be given regular checks for your eyes to prevent complication such as damage to your eyesight. You should also get your feet checked on a regular basis to prevent foot ulcers and infection to cracked or dried skin. Any problems with your eyes or feet contact your doctor or nurse straight a way. Never miss an appointment with your diabetic nurse or your doctor. You are also entitled, with a referral from your GP, to two free appointments with a state-registered chiropodist. 

 

Moisturise your legs and feet each day this will help to prevent dry skin that cracks and may become infected. A good moisturiser off the shelf is as good as any expensive one. If you develop corns or verrucas, get some help from a state-registered chiropodist. Never treat corns or verrucas yourself.

 

Checklist: Looking after your health

 

 

1. Eat a healthy, balanced diet

2. Take regular exercise - ideally 30 minutes every day

3. Watch your weight

4. Have a regular health check - usually once a year

5. Look after your eyes and feet

 

Tips for healthy eating

 

1. More high fibre foods, such as bread, pasta, potatoes, whole meal chapatti

2. Less fatty foods - try to avoid butter, cakes and fried food.

3. Eat more fruit and vegetables - at least five helpings a day, (recommended 5-9 a day)

4. Avoid sugary foods and drinks

5. Use less salt - try herbs and spices to add flavour instead

6. Avoid ‘diabetic’ foods - they are expensive, high in fat and you don’t need them

 

Healthy eating is good for everyone, whether you have diabetes or not. It is a great help if other people in your household can follow the same advice about food and you all change your eating habits together. If you are worried about your eating habits your diabetes nurse or doctor can arrange for you to see a dietician, a specialist in foods and eating. Also, ask your diabetic nurse if there is also a six week xpert course for diabetics in your area you can go on. It is an excellent, educational course that will tell you all you need to know about diabetes.