7 Steps for Better Living With Diabetes

This information has been reviewed and approved by Dthia Kalkwarf, RN, (March 2024).

Summary: 7 Steps For Better Living With Diabetes

1. Eat Healthy

• Eat lots of vegetables and fruit
• Reduce or eliminate sugary foods and drinks
• Watch or reduce carbs
• Watch portion sizes
• Eat regular meals
• Lose 10-20 pounds if you are overweight

2. Be Active

• Exercise 5 days a week
• Be active 30 minutes a day
• Lose 10-20 pounds if you are overweight

3. Monitor

• Check your blood sugar levels; know your A1C
• Check your blood pressure, cholesterol, eyes, feet and teeth

4. Take Medication

• Know your pills and insulins, understand how they work and take the right doses at the right times

5. Problem Solve

• Recognize your high and low blood sugars, understand what caused them and learn to treat and prevent them

6. Reduce Risk

• Quit smoking
• Do regular health exams (eye, foot & dental)
• See your doctor regularly for check-ups and tests

7. Cope Well

• Get support from your family, friends and diabetes care team
• Set realistic goals and work toward them

More Information on Diabetes

• Diabetes Health Info
• Diabetes Self-Management Patient Education Program
• Managing Your Medications
• Nutrition
• Healthy Recipes
• Exercise
• Division of Specialty Services
• Walk With a Doc
• Make an Appointment
• Find a Doctor

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