|
|
(HealthNewsDigest.com) – There is no question that being diagnosed with diabetes is a jolt – emotionally, physically, and even socially. Having to change the way you eat, and being told to lose weight, exercise, and take medication is overwhelming. For many people the emotional response to a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can be so significant that it becomes a barrier to self-management.
Type 2 diabetes is largely a self-managed condition and it is highly personalized and frequently involves trial and error. In the Personalized Nutrition Project (http://www.cell.com/abstract/S0092-8674(15)01481-6) researchers followed 800 people to determine their blood sugar response to over 46,000 meals. They found there were huge differences in blood sugar levels among different people who consumed identical meals. Sleep patterns, exercise activity, and the composition of their gut microbes all played a part in blood sugar responses. This demonstrates why personalized diets manage type 2 diabetes far better than simple universal eating advice.
The American Diabetes Association is advocating that all individuals with diabetes receive diabetes self-management education (DSME) at diagnosis and as needed thereafter. This empowers every person to take control of their care and implement strategies that fit their lifestyle and culture. Despite proven benefits of DSME to better manage type 2 diabetes, reduce hospital admissions, and lower the risk for complications very few people are referred to this self-management program.
Every person with type 2 diabetes is different. A one-size-fits-all treatment plan simply won’t work. Patient-centered care provided by DSME is responsive to what the person wants, their values, and to some degree what medications they are willing to use. Treatment options that you agree to, even when not optimum, will provide better results. Instructions are useless if they are not followed.
At diagnosis many people are so overwhelmed that all they can use is what is often referred to as survival-level education. The absolute basics of what you need to do. It is wise to have a close friend or family member listen to these initial instructions. After this a referral to a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) or Registered Dietitian (RD) will help you integrate the diet, exercise and medication strategies you need to control your type 2 diabetes.
Keep in mind that managing type 2 diabetes takes time but it is within your control. It will take you anywhere from 2 to 8 months to change behaviors and habits and integrate new food patterns and exercise programs. Only you can set the pace for what you are willing and able to do. Ask questions and report any problems you encounter. Know that there are solutions and compromises for every issue you face.
You need to assemble a health care team that assists you in diabetes self-care. But, the team depends on you to be honest and to thoroughly report on your home care and how you feel.
You will see your primary care doctor about every 3 months to check on your well-being and monitor your blood sugar. Your A1C blood levels will be tested to provide a history of your blood sugar values over the last 3 months. If your levels are lower than 7, you may not need to be retested again as frequently. Your doctor will also keep vaccinations up to date and monitor your blood pressure, blood lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides), and kidney function. Diabetes increases your risk for infections, as well as heart and kidney disease.
Initially, you should have a series of visits with a Certified Diabetes Educator or a Registered Dietitian to help you put your drug, exercise, daily care, and eating plan in place. They will help you tailor your treatment goals with your personal choices. Thereafter, they can answer any questions about self-care and are available to help with special circumstances like sick days, religious holidays that affect food, and traveling.
You will need to visit an eye doctor after diagnosis and then every 1 to 2 years. Diabetes puts you at greater risk for certain eye conditions.
A podiatrist should be seen shortly after diagnosis and then at least once a year to check for healthy circulation in your feet and to monitor any loss of sensation or pain. You need to check your feet regularly at home.
Continue to visit your dentist twice a year to monitor the health of your mouth and gums and keep your teeth clean.
Bottom line: Knowledge is power. The more you know about diabetes, the better you can take care of yourself and the healthier you will be.
For more information on managing type 2 diabetes take a look at my newly released eBook the Diabetes Counter available on iTunes or Amazon Kindle.
© NRH Nutrition Consultants, Inc.
Jo-Ann Heslin, MA, RD, CDN is a registered dietitian and the author of 30 books. Available as eBooks from iTunes and Amazon Kindle:
Diabetes Counter
Calorie Counter
Protein Counter
Healthy Wholefoods Counter
Complete Food Counter
Fat and Cholesterol Counter
Available in print from Gallery Books:
Most Complete Food Counter, 3rd Ed.
Your Complete Food Counter App: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/your-complete-food-counter/id444558777?mt=8
For more information on Jo-Ann and her books, go to: www.TheNutritionExperts.com.
###
For advertising/promo rates, contact Mike McCurdy at 877-634-1980 or [email protected]