DIABETES TOPICS

MONITORING YOUR BLOOD GLUCOSE

One of the ways to managing your blood glucose is learning to check your blood glucose (sugar) level with a glucose meter. You will learn how to use a meter, how to track your numbers, and identify patterns so you know how food, activity, stress, and medication affect your blood glucose every day and you can make changes before you experience diabetes related complications. Prevention is key to living a healthy life.

CREATING A MEAL PLAN

An important part of managing blood glucose is eating healthy foods every day. This doesn't mean giving up foods you enjoy, but learning how food affects your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol so you can make the best decision for your life. You will learn about serving sizes, portion sizes, and what foods contain the most carbohydrates. This is not about losing weight quickly, but learning sustainable lasting behaviors.

SETTING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GOALS

Being physically active every day helps you keep your blood glucose in control. An active lifestyle improves your body's ability to use insulin thereby lowering your blood glucose. If you have not been active for a while, start slowly by walking 10 minutes a day for a week. Build up to 30 minutes a day for at least 5 days a week. Check with your health provider before starting any exercise program or schedule an appointment Wellness With Grace NP for a thorough health assessment.