An initial diagnosis of diabetes can cause so many thoughts to run through a person’s mind: How could I have gotten diabetes? What could I have done differently? Where did I get this from?
It can be hard hearing that you have diabetes but Diabetes is not a death sentence and many of who are diagnosed with the condition go on to live happy and healthy lives.
Diabetes is an insidious disease (slowly progressing but in a way that is harmful) so it is important to avoid denial and have a winning mindset from the beginning. People diagnosed with diabetes are able to live long and healthy lives as long as they adhere to guidelines. Diabetes can be well-managed.
After a diagnosis of diabetes, what next?
Follow your doctor’s lead
First, it is important to understand diabetes and also know acceptable blood sugar levels. For people living with diabetes, the acceptable fasting blood glucose levels should be between 80 and 120 mg/dL and 2hours post-prandial blood glucose levels should be less than 200mg/dL. This is critical information which will be provided by your doctor. Your doctor has been equipped with ample knowledge and sometimes a wealth of experience which will be beneficial for you. Make it a habit to visit your doctor on your clinic days for adequate follow up, medical examination and advice. People who are diagnosed with diabetes will need to see a specialist doctor referred to as an Endocrinologist.
Attending clinic days will encourage you to meet others living with diabetes and expose you to support groups like the Diabetes Association of Nigeria (D.A.N). Would you like to know more about this? Please send us a message or call 07052231030.
In type 1 diabetes, insulin is injected so it is important to speak to your doctor about any concerns you might have.
Ask questions
It is important to ask your doctor/endocrinologist all the questions you may have. These may include questions concerning the medication you are on, concerning symptoms to look out for, monitoring blood sugar levels and how to prevent complications of diabetes.
Diet
There is no specific diet for those living with diabetes but it is important that a healthy and balanced diet is adopted and eaten in the right proportions. Foods with complex carbs such as potatoes, whole wheat spaghetti, vegetables, healthy fats like avocados should be eaten. It is important to avoid foods high in sugar and saturated fat like butter, cheese, red meat etc. Also, avoid fried foods as much as possible.
Exercise
To ensure a well-rounded fitness regime, aerobic and strength training exercises should be included. Exercise does not have to be boring or monotonous. You can speak to your doctor and fitness expert to provide a guide concerning the best exercises for you.
Self-monitoring of blood glucose levels
This is a very important aspect of diabetes management. Consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels helps to see if the current medication and lifestyle measures you have adopted are working and if any changes need to be made by your doctor. For continuous blood glucose monitoring, the CODEFREE glucometer is recommended. For information on how to access the CODEFREE blood glucose monitor, please call 07038525977.
References
Understanding Diabetes, 2006
Diabetes UK, 2019
Leave a reply
