As you know, there is no cure for diabetes… but you can take the proper steps to manage it. According to the American Diabetes Association, “Balancing the food you eat with exercise and medicine (if prescribed) will help you control your weight and can keep your blood glucose in the healthy range. This can help prevent or delay complications.” Follow these steps to live a longer and healthier life.

1. Eat Healthy

• Make healthy food choices
• Watch portion sizes
• Eat regular meals

2. Be Active

• Exercise 5 days a week
• Be active 30 minutes a day
• Do your best to lose weight (If overweight)

3. Monitor

• Check your blood sugar levels; know your A1C
• Check your blood pressure, cholesterol, eyes, feet and teeth

4. Take Medication

• Know your pills and insulins, understand how they work and take the right doses at the right times

5. Problem Solve

• Recognize your high and low blood sugars, understand what caused them and learn to treat and prevent them

6. Reduce Risk

• Quit smoking
• Do regular health exams (eye, foot, dental)
• See your doctor regularly for check-ups and tests

7. Cope Well

• Get support from your family, friends and diabetes care team
• Set realistic goals and work toward them

Sources: American Diabetes Association and NationalJewishHealth.org