Farmers Branch, Texas, is probably not the first place that people think of when it comes to diabetes. However, Dallas’ farming community might not be as safe from this disease as once thought. Although only about six percent of Americans have diabetes, research shows that many more are at risk for developing it in their lifetime. The number of people who have diabetes is growing, and managing the condition is crucial. Farmers Branch diabetes patients should know that they can manage their disease by doing the following:
Learn About Your Condition
Doctors recommend that people who have been diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes learn everything they can about their condition. Diabetes education is a vital part of managing the disease and being healthy. Learn how to test blood glucose levels, check food labels for nutritional information and learn what you can do to prevent your condition from worsening. Learning more about your condition can help you understand how to manage it and what you can do to stay healthy.
Take Medications
The proper medications can help people minimize their symptoms and prevent diabetes complications. If you take the right medications, you should experience fewer side effects than ever before. Although some people with diabetes may have to switch drugs or try several different prescriptions first, your doctor should be able to find the best treatment plan for your condition. Develop a relationship with your doctor and communicate any concerns you have about your medication which will help ensure that they are getting the correct prescriptions to manage your diabetes better.
Eat The Right Foods
A healthy, balanced diet is critical for anyone who has diabetes. A good diet can help control blood glucose levels and minimize the risk of heart disease and other complications. However, you may need to make some changes before creating a healthy diet plan. Start by avoiding sugary sodas and limiting the number of processed foods in your diet. Instead, eat more whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables to improve your health. Exercise regularly and control portion sizes to help keep blood sugar levels even throughout the day.
Lose Weight
The right weight management plan can help people with diabetes avoid heart disease, stroke, and other complications. Although you may only need to lose a few pounds to see significant improvements, many people with diabetes struggle to make lasting changes. If you do not think you can lose weight on your own, consider speaking with a doctor about bariatric surgery or another form of weight loss surgery. This type of surgery can help people lose a significant amount of weight and make the changes they need to improve their health.
Exercise Regularly
A balanced diet is crucial for people who have diabetes. However, exercise can also help improve your health. Walking, jogging, and swimming are all great exercises that can help control blood sugar levels, build strength and boost overall wellbeing. Start by walking around the block or doing some stretches before bed to get into a good routine. Then take a walk with a partner or join a local gym to start other exercises.
People diagnosed with diabetes should learn how to manage their condition as soon as possible. Educating themselves about the disease and developing good habits can help them feel better, lose weight and improve their overall wellbeing. Farmers Branch patients should speak with a doctor before making any changes to their treatment plan.
