12 Steps to Controlling Your Diabetes

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Eat every 3-4 hours so your blood sugar doesn't drop or fluctuate too much. This may determine whether a snack is necessary or not. Eating more frequently prevents over-eating at the next meal or snack and keeps your metabolism higher so you burn more calories!

Wait 2 hours between meals and snacks so the blood sugar has a chance to come down before you send it back up with your food consumption.

Have your doctor do a blood test to determine your 3-month blood sugar average. HbA1c also known as glycohemoglobin or hemoglobin A1c shows the progress you are making every few months with controlling your diabetes. Look for a number of 7 percent which is equivalent to154 mg/dL * or 6.5 percent which is equivalent to 140 mg/dL **, for best control. Fructosamine is a similar test that averages two weeks worth of blood sugar results.

Remember to exercise at least 5 days a week for 30 -- 40 minutes. This includes walking, bicycling, strength training, etc. Exercise helps insulin work more efficiently to lower your blood sugar.

Be sure to meet with a team of diabetes experts. They will provide you with the knowledge you need to control your blood sugar. There may need to be adjustments with times of exercise, medications or food choices for best glucose control.

There are no secrets when managing diabetes. You have all the tools you need to find out how food, exercise, medications and even stress affects your glucose readings. In time, you will learn how to fine tune and better manage your disease. The HbA1c will tell you what range your blood sugar is in. Your glucose monitor will provide you with critical information so you can find out how daily living affects your blood sugar. Don't allow the diabetes to rule your life when you are in charge!

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About the Author:

Marci Sloane, MS, RD, LD/N, CDE, is a registered and licensed dietitian/nutritionist and certified diabetes educator. She grew up in NYC where Marci graduated with a degree in Nutrition and Physiology from Teachers College at Columbia University.

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