by Karen Newton
Diabetes affects 7% of the population of the United States, or 20.8 million people. Of this group only 14.6 million have been diagnosed, the rest have the condition but are currently untreated. In addition to these numbers there are an estimate 41 million people that are pre-diabetic. Approximately 1 of every 10 healthcare dollars is spent in treatment of diabetes, and still there were 224,092 deaths in 2002 in which diabetes was a contributing factor. It is estimated that there are literally thousands of deaths per year that are not reported simply because the individual had not been diagnosed with diabetes and died of heart disease, hypertension or other chronic conditions.
Can diabetes be controlled?
The research indicates that diabetes can be controlled with constant monitoring, using medications properly, maintaining and managing weight and routine exercise and good diet choices.
In order to control your diabetes focus on the things that you can control. Remember that sudden changes in weight or activity levels are problematic, so set a reasonable goal and work towards it slowly.
Weight loss of even five to ten pounds can really have a positive effect on managing diabetes. Try to make sure that you eat balanced meals at eat on a schedule. Avoid skipping meals even if you don”t feel particularly hungry, as this will make it harder to portion control at your next meal or to avoid snacks in between.
Remember that weight loss needs to be gradual. Avoid any diets that are “fad” diets or that will cause you to have very rapid weight loss. Usually these diets cannot be maintained and the weight will just come right back.
Exercise
Set a goal to exercise at least three times a week, with the idea rate being every other day. Exercise can be just a brisk 30-minute walk, cycling, swimming or weightlifting. Research is clearly showing the link between regular physical exercise and decrease in blood sugars, weight gains, and lowering your risk of heart disease or stroke.
Make sure that you have comfortable and well fitting shoes and socks for your activities. Check your feet regularly for any blisters, cuts or sore spots and immediately seek medical assistance if any are noted.
Work with your team
Use the advice of your diabetes support team, doctor, support group, therapist or other professional to help you realistically set goals and outcomes. Controlling your diabetes is an ongoing activity, and you will need to find a level of exercise, food intake and medication that work well for you. Discuss any concerns that you have with your medical professional if they arecausing any discomfort. Remember that it is important to get information and notify your health care professional if you are planning to use any diets or exercise programs before you begin. Monitor heart rate or blood pressure when exercising, and avoid working out to exhaustion. Rarely does this accomplish anything other than making you stiff and sore and less likely to exercise in the future.
Controlling diabetes needs to be done with both medical interventions and personal efforts. Managing your food intake, weight, and levels of exercise will all work together to help control diabetes and minimize your risk of any complications.
About the Author :
Karen Newton is a registered nurse and acclaimed author with over 25 years of health care experience. Her newest book, Diabetic Diet Secrets, is an easy to follow guide to losing weight and getting control of your diabetes. Karen offers a free Diabetic Tips Course at http://www.diabeticdietsecrets.com/diabetictips.htm.
Article Source: www.iSnare.com
