Control your Diabetes with ABC
—To stay healthy while suffering from Diabetes you have to follow ABC.
- An A1C level is a blood test showing average blood sugar control in the last 3-4 months.
- Blood pressure control is necessary if you are a diabetic. High blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.
- Cholesterol levels in the blood which is a fatty substance should be within normal limits. Higher levels of cholesterol can lead to life threatening conditions.
Importance of ABC
People with diabetes are 2 or 3 times more at risk of heart attack, a stroke or kidney disease. By following ABC, you can lower your risk of these problems.
Effects of uncontrolled blood sugars
- Diseases of the eye (Retinopathy) that can lead to loss of vision and maybe blindness.
- Diseases of the kidney( Nephropathy )
- Damage to the nerves (Neuropathy) causing pain/numbness of the hands and feet.
- Foot infections which may need amputation in severe cases.
Normal ABC levels
The levels you should aim for will depend on how severe your diabetes is other concomitant illnesses etc.
Aim for
- A1C levels below 7 percent
- Blood pressure below 130/80
- LDL cholesterol level below 100 (LDL called the bad cholesterol)
Control of ABC
You and IDEACLINICS will work together to keep your ABCs under control.
You may need:
Medication: Diabetic patients take medicines every day to control their blood sugar. They might be also suffering from high BP or cholesterol for which they need to take medicines. Your doctor will prescribe the right medicines for you.
- Lifestyle changes – You have to make healthy lifestyle choices such as:
- Healthy Diet – Include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products in your diet. Restrict fried and fatty food and confectionaries.
- Regular Exercise –Jogging, Walking, Yoga, Aerobic exercise, Dancing, Sports, gardening for 30 minutes at least 5 days a week.
- Stop Alcohol and Smoking – as they increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
- Smoking – Also increases the blood glucose levels.
