The Newsy Neighbour Magazine
April Issue 114
Article Provided By: Vicki Myhre of Jenerical Wellness & Footcare
Hey there! Larry and Roger here! Happy April. We just
had a bit of a set back. Our human got that bug that has been going around and
we all ended up spending a few days in bed as we worked it through. I know many
of you have gone through the same experience. The real problem is this… we got
off track, and now we are having a hard time trying to get the habit back in
place… It is never easy, is it? The Fit Bit is back on, we’re walking 5000
steps a day (baby steps); that is what makes it work. We know that if we can do
this, you can do it, too. While hanging out on the couch, we found an amazing
article on healthline.com that we would love to share with you; it goes well
with the Health and Fitness theme of the month.
A Daily Living Guide for Type 2 Diabetes
Living with type 2 diabetes means you have to manage your daily
habits and take good care of yourself. Some people need to lose weight, while
others need a combination of lifestyle changes. This may seem like a lot to
take on. But with a little bit of work, you can manage your diabetes and take
control of your health.
Here are some tips to help you get started, no matter where you
are on your type 2 diabetes journey.
Losing Weight
Many people with type 2 diabetes are also overweight. If you need
to lose weight, you’re not alone. Controlling your weight can help you
regulate your blood sugar levels. A major part of managing your weight is
making healthy food choices. Strive for a diet that contains a variety of
nutrients, such as:
·
vitamins,
found in fruits and fortified cereals
·
minerals,
found in vegetables and dairy
·
protein,
found in meat, nuts, and seeds
·
healthy
carbohydrates, found in vegetables, legumes, and whole grains
·
healthy
fats, found in olive oil, nuts, and dairy
It can be difficult to reach your desired body weight. The National
Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says that losing
just 10 to 15 pounds can make a difference.
Cut back
your total calories each day by eating smaller portions, and you may have more
success with weight control. Of course, talk to your primary care doctor,
diabetes health team, or a dietitian before starting a weight loss
program.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help to control your weight. It can also
decrease your risk of other health complications. According to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should try to get 30 minutes of
moderate-intensity exercise, five days a week.
Moderate-intensity
exercise includes activities like fast walking, biking, jogging, aerobics, and
swimming.
Be
creative and find other activities, like skiing or surfing, that raise your
heart rate and cause you to sweat. Check with your doctor before starting a
program to be sure that it’s safe, especially for your heart and your joints.
If you’re not used to exercising regularly, start off slowly and then work your
way up to doing more each time.
Medications
You may be able to manage type 2 diabetes through diet and exercise, but
you may also need the aid of prescription medications. Diabetes
Medications are typically oral pills that help control blood sugar levels.
Often, the medicine will lower your blood sugar, and you’ll notice that your
levels are better controlled.
There are
many different medications used for type 2 diabetes. You may need only one kind
or a combination of several. Take each medication as it is prescribed, and let
your doctor know if you experience any side effects.
Oral Health
Having type 2 diabetes puts you at risk for dental problems such
as gum disease. When your blood sugar levels are too high, you may have
trouble fighting off bacteria that cause oral infections. You may also have a
higher risk of dry mouth, which can cause sores that make it hard to chew
food.
Regular
brushing and flossing is particularly important. To avoid problems, brush your
teeth after eating and use a soft toothbrush. Floss your teeth at
least once a day, but be gentle when working the floss between
your teeth. See your dentist regularly and be sure to tell them that you have
type 2 diabetes. Your dentist may also recommend other resources for keeping
your teeth healthy.
Watching for Complications
Complications from type 2 diabetes can develop in almost any
area of your body. So, it’s important to be aware of certain signs. Type 2
diabetes can increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, or
stroke. See your doctor for help with testing to check your blood cholesterol
and your blood pressure.
Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also cause poor circulation
that affects your feet. Take good care of your feet by wearing socks at all
times, even around the house. Check your feet for sores and keep your toenails
short. Make sure that your shoes fit well and aren’t causing blisters. Poor
circulation can also damage blood vessels in other areas, such as your kidneys
or the retina of your eyes. Look for signs of problems, and tell your doctor if
you’re not feeling well.
Day-to-day management of type 2 diabetes is ongoing. It may be
overwhelming at first, but establishing a regular schedule can help you stay on
top of your disease.
Well, there you have it! What a great article, loaded with info
for all of us Diabetics. It’s a keeper! Next month is Mother’s Day. We are
looking for a GRANDE RECIPE to share for the special day… Stay tuned for
scrumptious goodness.
Until Next month,
Make your Footprints
Count.
Larry and Roger
Written by:
Vicki L Myhre CPOD (I)
CMP PFRP
Jenericay Wellness and
Footcare
Internationally
Certified Podologist
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