The ABCs of Diabetes Control

People with diabetes are often focused on keeping their blood sugar levels within a target range. While that’s important, good diabetes control includes several other measures, such as keeping blood pressure and cholesterol at recommended levels.

Managing diabetes can be easier if you take three key steps, known as the ABCs of diabetes control. Paying attention to these three things can also help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, which are potentially serious complications from diabetes.

The ABCs of diabetes control are:

• A is for A1C test. The hemoglobin A1C test measures average blood sugar levels over the previous three months. Test results indicate how well blood sugar is being controlled in your body. If you have diabetes, you should get an A1C test at least twice a year. Your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent testing if your diabetes isn’t under control. The American Diabetes Association says most adults with diabetes should aim for an A1C test result of 7% or lower.
• B is for blood pressure. Diabetes can increase blood pressure by damaging the walls of blood vessels, causing them to stiffen and narrow, which creates greater resistance to blood flow. This forces the heart to work harder to pump blood through the body and may lead to heart disease. Diabetes can also damage the kidneys, resulting in increased water retention, which also increases blood pressure. If you have diabetes, you should get your blood pressure checked at minimum once a year, although your healthcare provider may recommend more frequent checks. For people with diabetes, blood pressure should be below 130/80 mm Hg. If your blood pressure is elevated, there are several ways to reduce it, including prescription medication and lifestyle changes. For more information, check out our blog on high blood pressure.
• C is for cholesterol. People with diabetes often have high cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Their LDL cholesterol (the bad type of cholesterol) tends to be elevated, while their HDL or good cholesterol is usually reduced. If you have diabetes, get your cholesterol tested at least once a year. Your total cholesterol should be below 200 mg/dL. Try to keep your LDL cholesterol level below 100 mg/dL and your HDL cholesterol above 60 mg/dL. Learn more about cholesterol and how to lower it.

How to Manage Your ABCs

Now that you know the ABCs of diabetes control, how can you manage them? The first step is to work with your healthcare provider to develop a diabetes control plan, personalized to your specific needs and lifestyle. Then consistently follow the plan and stay in touch with your healthcare provider.

Your diabetes control plan may include these components:

• Medications — Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to control your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Be sure to take all the medications as directed.
• Healthy meals — Eat balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. Portion control can also be helpful in making positive changes to your diet.
• Exercise — Try to be active and get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. The exercise does not have to be strenuous — even a gentle form of activity like walking is good.
• Blood sugar monitoring — People with diabetes should check their blood glucose levels several times a day. The exact frequency of checks will depend on your situation and treatment plan. Monitor your blood sugar as directed so that you’ll be able to better understand how food and activity are affecting your condition.
• Weight management — If you have excess weight, your healthcare provider may recommend steps to lose it, as weight reduction can improve blood sugar control and lower the risk of diabetes complications.
• Stress management — High levels of stress can affect blood sugar levels. Your healthcare provider may recommend taking action to reduce your stress levels. Learn how to recognize and manage stress.
• Regular checkups — Your healthcare provider will recommend a schedule for office visits and lab tests. Be sure to adhere to the recommended schedule.
• Stop smoking — If you smoke, quitting will help with controlling your diabetes and can help prevent many complications, such as heart disease. Your healthcare provider can recommend effective methods to stop smoking, such as getting help from 802Quits.
• Avoid alcohol — Consuming alcohol can cause blood sugar levels to swing up and down, making it harder to maintain consistent blood sugar control. Alcohol can also interact with diabetes medications.

More Than Monitoring Blood Sugar

Diabetes is a progressive disease — over time it can get worse and affect many parts of the body, including the eyes, heart, and kidneys. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the ABCs of diabetes control and follow up with your healthcare provider regularly. For more information, check out our blog on living with diabetes.