When It’s Diabetes, Food Is Not the Only Answer
When Devon first found out he had diabetes, he thought he would only need to know which foods to eat and which ones to avoid to control his blood sugar. But he soon found that knowing what to put on his plate wasn’t enough on its own.
Devon’s doctor explained that there is more to managing diabetes than just changing your diet. It’s just as important that Devon should know his “diabetes numbers”—his A1c, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and his body mass index.
If you’re also living with diabetes, read on to learn what these numbers are—and why it’s important to know them.
A1c
This is a blood test that checks for sugar in the bloodstream, but it’s different from the daily finger pricks done at home. An A1c is done at the lab or your doctor’s office every two to three months. Instead of measuring blood sugar at a specific moment, like a finger prick does, A1c gives a bigger picture of a person’s blood sugar levels over time. This is the most accurate test of how well blood sugar is being controlled.
Blood Pressure
If you have diabetes, you should have your blood pressure checked regularly—at least every time you see your doctor. Diabetes damages arteries, which can cause high blood pressure that can lead to heart attack and kidney failure if not treated.
A blood pressure level below 135/85 mm Hg is recommended for most people with diabetes, but your doctor may recommend lower levels if you are at risk for heart disease. If you have problems controlling your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe a medication to bring it to a healthy level.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Knowing this number is important because people with a higher BMI are at greater risk for diabetes and diabetes complications. BMI is based on a calculation of your weight and height. You can figure your BMI easily using the calculator on the American Diabetes Association website: diabetes.org/bmi-calculator.
Cholesterol
People with diabetes often have higher levels of LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) that can lead to heart disease or a stroke. If you have diabetes, have a blood test to check your cholesterol levels at least once a year. Many people can control their cholesterol levels with diet, exercise, medication or a combination of these.
If you have diabetes, get to know your numbers. Like eating a nutritious and healthy diet, they are an essential ingredient of any successful diabetes management plan.
