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The Road to Successful Diabetes Management |
Any long trip involves careful planning, patience and a positive attitude. For the 18.2 million Americans with diabetes, the journey to diabetes management is a lifelong endeavor.
The directions on the road map to success are easy to remember.
"Proper nutrition, regular exercise and frequent blood glucose monitoring are the cornerstones of successful diabetes management," says Lorena Drago, a certified diabetes educator. "Work with your health care professional to develop a diabetes action plan, and you're on the road to successfully managing diabetes!"
Drago recommends the following tips to help you on your way towards better diabetes management.
* Break the fast. Studies show that even a 5 percent weight loss can positively affect your health and reduce diabetes-related complications. For a person weighing 200 pounds, that's just 10 pounds. Eating three meals a day and establishing regular meal times can help control calorie intake and manage weight. Pay special attention to breakfast. According to the National Weight Control Registry, people who regularly eat breakfast are more likely to achieve and maintain weight loss.
During the morning rush, grab a delicious Glucerna bar or shake. They're convenient and contain slowly digested carbohydrates that help avoid peaks in blood sugar levels. Ask your health care professional how to use Glucerna products in your meal plan.
* Stop stress. Stressful situations can cause blood sugar to rise or fall. Walking, stretching and dancing can all help reduce stress and lower blood sugar levels. Keeping a journal to write down positive thoughts also helps you work through stressful times.
* Be prepared while on-the-move. It's important to carry diabetes medications, a blood glucose meter and supplies with you at all times. Free Style Flash, the smallest blood glucose meter in the world, easily fits into a purse or briefcase. These supplies are essential if illness, flight delays or other unexpected situations arise.
To encourage better management among the millions of Americans with diabetes, the makers of Glucerna and FreeStyle products are hitting the road with the "Taking Diabetes Freedom to the Streets" tour. They are asking people with diabetes and their caretakers to take the Diabetes Freedom pledge and commit to manage diabetes or help others manage the condition 365 days a year.
Visit www.diabetesfreedom.com or call (800) 986-8935 to take the pledge and receive valuable information to help you take control and experience "diabetes freedom" through a healthier lifestyle. -NU |
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