Taking Care of Yourself
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The experts at the Howard University Hospital Diabetes Treatment Center encourage patients to educate themselves by conducting research, asking questions and having a general understanding of the impact of diabetes and the various treatment options available. We are fully committed to helping our patients achieve the best possible health outcomes by providing expert medical care, supportive counseling and a wide range of resources throughout a patient's diabetes journey. Scroll below to find out more information.
Living Healthy With Diabetes
Keeping a positive attitude and staying focused is an integral part of living a healthier lifestyle as a diabetic. That comes with eating healthy, taking your meds, getting the proper rest, managing your weight and monitoring your blood sugar levels. Take time out of your schedule to exercise, which is great for your overall health. Start a regular routine such as walking, which will provide you with immediate health benefits. Speak with your physician before you decide to begin any type of exercise regimen.
Managing Your Diet
If you are diagnosed with diabetes that means you will have to make some basic adjustments to your diet in order to help manage your diabetes and stay as healthy as possible. You will have to monitor everything that you eat and drink at all times. Being in control of your food intake and nutrition will have a positive impact on your overall health and how you feel.
Your doctor will likely recommend that you see a dietician to help you develop a healthy eating plan, which means eating the healthiest foods in moderate amounts and sticking to regular mealtimes. The plan will help you control your blood sugar (glucose), manage your weight and control heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high blood fats. A healthy eating plan includes foods that are naturally rich in nutrients and low in fat and calories. Key elements are fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Once you get into a routine, you’ll start learn what foods to look out for and the certain nutrients that can impact your health. Keep in mind, your individual diet plan will depend on your overall health. Check with your dietician who can help you meal plan, stay within your dialysis diet guidelines, recommend recipes, and also provide you with a better understanding of nutrition basics. A dietician can also teach you how to make smart choices while you are at the grocery store.
Avoid Getting A Cut
If you have diabetes, the smallest scratch or cut can quickly turn into an extremely dangerous health serious situation if you're not careful. Ignoring a cut or not properly treating it the right way, can slow the healing process, leading to an infection, and, in the worst case, possibly an amputation.
What Can I Do To Improve My Health Living With Diabetes?
There are many things you can do to control your diabetes and live a healthier lifestyle. For starters, take your medicines for diabetes and any other health problems even when you feel good. Check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Brush your teeth and floss every day to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy. Stop smoking immediately. Monitor and track your blood sugar.
