There is a great deal of noise about diabetes management. These five things are the ones our clinicians return to.
1. Take the medicine as prescribed
The most common reason for poor control is not diet — it is missed doses. If cost or side effects are the obstacle, say so; both can usually be worked around.
2. Walk after meals
Ten to fifteen minutes after eating blunts the post-meal glucose rise more than the same walk taken at another time of day.
3. Check your feet
Once a day, including between the toes. Anything that has not started healing within a few days needs to be seen.
4. Sleep
Short sleep raises insulin resistance measurably. It is treated as optional far too often.
5. Bring someone with you
Patients who attend appointments with a family member remember more of the advice and follow it more consistently.
