Adding Physical Activity
Diabetics also need to incorporate physical activity into their lives. Walking just 30 minutes a day, a few days a week, can make a difference. Exercise helps muscles to better use insulin, which in turn keeps blood sugar levels lower.Coping With it All
There may be times when balancing food, exercise and medication seems a bit overwhelming. There may also be times when reading about potential complications is a bit scary.Rest assured that others feel the same way. Not every day can be perfect. Diabetics should work with their doctor to set goals they can achieve. Consider joining a support group to help cope with diabetes and the feelings it can bring.
Sources:
"Pre-Diabetes." American Diabetes Association. American Diabetes Association. 24 Aug. 2007 <http://www.diabetes.org/pre-diabetes.jsp>.
"Gestational Diabetes." American Diabetes Association. American Diabetes Association. 22 Aug. 2007 <http://www.diabetes.org/gestational-diabetes.jsp>.
"Diabetes Overview." National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Sep. 2006. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. 24 Aug. 2007 <http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/overview/>
"Am I At Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?" National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Dec. 2006. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. 22 Aug. 2007 <http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/riskfortype2/index.htm>.
“Definition of Oral Glucose Tolerance Test.” Medicinenet.com. 10 Feb. 2001. Medicinenet.com. 23 Aug. 2007 <http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=16194>
"Type 2 Diabetes." Medline Plus. 22 May 2007. U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health. 24 Aug. 2007 <http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000313.htm>.
"National Diabetes Fact Sheet." Diabetes Data & Trends. 2005. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 10 Sep 2007
http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/ddtstrs/template/ndfs_2005.pdf
