Diabetes is diagnosed when your body has problems making and/or using insulin, which is the hormone that helps your body process sugar and carbohydrates in your diet.
We can help you learn how to manage your diabetes with the 4 Ms:
- Medications
- Movement
- Meals
- Monitoring
Keep reading to learn more about how to use each of the 4Ms to prevent complications so that you can live a healthy life!
If diabetes is not controlled, it can lead to serious complications, including:
- Kidney failure
- Heart problems or strokes
- Lower-limb amputations
- Adult blindness
Diabetes is currently the 7th leading cause of death.
These complications are scary but can usually be avoided by controlling your diabetes.
You can achieve this by taking medication(s), making lifestyle changes, and following the routine medical monitoring and care. Â Just remember the 4 Ms: Medications, Movement, Meals, Monitoring.
Medications will help control your blood sugars and can lower your risk for kidney failure, heart disease, and other complications. Â These include pills and medications that you inject at home (both insulin and non-insulin options).
Blood sugar highs and lows can be dangerous, so please take your medicines exactly as directed by your medical provider.
Physical activity is an important tool to control your blood sugar levels, lower your blood pressure, and promote weight loss.
- Make sure you move regularly, even if it is light walking to start, and slowly increase your exercise over time.
- Consult your medical provider before starting any new exercise regimen.
Read more: Exercise Tips for Type 2 Diabetes.
What you eat and drink plays an important role in your blood sugar control.
- Eat whole foods, especially vegetables!
- Try to avoid processed foods.
- Eat home cooked meals as much as possible.
- Avoid sweetened beverages like soda, juice, sweet tea, etc.
- If you need additional help, ask your medical provider for a referral to a dietician.
Read more: Diet Tips for Type 2 Diabetes.
- You may be asked to check your blood sugars at home with a glucometer to prevent dangerous highs and lows.
- Be consistent with routine monitoring at the lab, including blood tests for A1C, cholesterol, liver and kidney function, and a urine test for protein.
- Get your diabetes eye exam (separate from a vision check) and foot exam in the office once a year. Â We can help you with these referrals.
- Check your blood pressure at least every 3 months.
- Incorporate diabetes foot checks into your daily routine.
Read more:
Following the recommendations of the 4 Ms (Medications, Movement, Meals, and Monitoring) will help you feel your best and lower your risk for developing diabetes-related complications.
