Diagnosis of a chronic condition can be stressful, to say the least. You may be wondering what the true effects of your diagnosis are on the rest of your life. While diabetes is not a death sentence, it does mean you may have to work harder to maintain daily health. Included here are a few things you need to know about diabetes following your diagnosis.
Know Your A1C
While embarking on your new journey post-diagnosis, you are going to come to a greater understanding of blood sugar numbers. One of the most important levels to keep track of is that of your A1C. The A1C level is a three-month average of blood sugar levels and should be kept below 7 percent. Different patients have different “ideal” levels, so talk to your doctor about what your personal A1C should be.
Exercise is Critical
As a new diabetic, keeping your body in a healthier state can help you manage your diabetes. Roughly 9 out of 10 newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetics are overweight. Being careful to manage your weight and have healthy exercise on a daily basis can help you keep your disease in check. Daily exercise can also have countless other benefits such as: lowered blood pressure, better sleep, higher energy levels, better weight levels, and relieved stress.
Eat Appropriately
Being a diabetic means you need to be keeping careful watch on what you consume. Diabetics should be careful that their diet is low in fat, with moderate amounts of salt and sugar, and based upon whole grain foods, vegetables and fruit. Diabetics are allowed to eat desserts and chocolates with the same amount of moderation as non-diabetics as long as it is part of a healthy diet. Keep in mind, it is up to you maintain healthy blood sugar levels based on what you do and do not put in your mouth.
Gestational Diabetes is Temporary
If you are expecting a baby, you may be aware of the possibility of gestational diabetes. This form of diabetes typically happens in women due to the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes will likely have to do insulin injections or another form of treatment for the duration of their pregnancy, but it will likely go away following birth. However, women who have previously had gestational diabetes are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes at a later point in life.
Risks are Real
For some people, a diagnosis of diabetes is unruffling and they refuse to change their lifestyle. Be aware that diabetes is a very real condition that can cause permanent damage if not treated and managed. Diabetes could cause you to lose your eyesight, suffer a stroke, have kidney damage or create nerve damage or ulcerations leading to amputation.