Diabetics are more prone than the average person to vascular disease such as a heart attack or a stroke. According to the American Diabetes Association, two-thirds of diabetics eventually die from a heart attack or a stroke. While this may sound bleak, a little diligence can go a long way. In addition to eating right, regular cholesterol screenings and blood pressure checks can help prevent these two risk factors from getting out of control.
Follow a Meal Plan
Diabetic eating plans include carbohydrate counting, food exchange systems, calorie monitoring and following the glycemic index. Before choosing a food plan to manage your diabetes, consult your doctor and a nutritionist. Nutritional requirements can vary based on your gender, age, weight and general activity level. Someone else's perfect eating plan may not be right for you. A dietary specialist can tailor a program that meets your needs. MayoClinic.com recommends including plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and beans in your diet and limiting your intake of saturated fats.
Monitor Your Sugars
Some diabetics require insulin to keep their blood sugars in check. Even if you manage your glucose levels primarily through your diet, check your sugar regularly. When blood sugar drops too low or goes too high, it can cause medical complications, such as confusion, fainting or visual problems. Check your blood sugar routinely throughout the day as recommended by your doctor, or more often if you notice any unusual changes in the way you feel. In addition, be sure your glucose testing system is in good working order and upgrade as necessary.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can contribute to healthy weight maintenance and may contribute to blood sugar level control. If you are overweight, a 5 to 10 percent weight loss can help keep blood sugar ranges at a better level, per MayoClinic.com, which recommends 30 minutes of activity a day. A combination of different exercise types may be more beneficial for diabetics than sticking to the same routine every day, MayoClinic.com reports. Try doing something different every day, varying from weights to brisk walking to cycling or yoga. If you are new to exercise, be sure to first discuss with your doctor.
Check Your Eyes and Feet
Unfortunately, diabetes can affect more than just your blood sugar levels. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports that diabetics commonly experience other complications, including blindness and foot problems that may lead to amputations. Not all of these complications are avoidable; however, a little prevention can go a long way. MayoClinic.com recommends scheduling regular eye exams to monitor for retinal damage and glaucoma. You should also check your feet every day, especially if your sensation is impaired. MayoClinic.com also recommends keeping feet from drying or cracking by using lotions or creams. Check with your doctor for any particular product recommendations.
Monitor Other Health Conditions
Because diabetics are more prone to circulatory complications than the average person, they must be more diligent about their cholesterol levels and blood pressure. You should see your doctor on a regular basis for routine screenings to ensure your numbers are in an appropriate range. If you take medications for your heart or blood pressure, keep up with your prescriptions and avoid letting them lapse. If you notice any unusual changes in your health or activity levels, consult your doctor.
