A significant lifestyle change is necessary for people with diabetes. Those who have diabetes need to adjust their diets, stick to exercise plans, ensure their medications are taken consistently, and above all, ensure they monitor themselves regularly. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease website, one great way to remember what to monitor yourself is simply by knowing your ABCs.

A for the A1C test

The A1C test shows your average blood glucose level over the past 3 months. The A1C goal for many people with diabetes is below 7 percent. Ask your health care team what your goal should be.

B for Blood pressure

The blood pressure goal for most people with diabetes is below 140/90 mm Hg. Ask what your goal should be.

C for Cholesterol

You have two kinds of cholesterol in your blood: LDL and HDL. LDL or “bad” cholesterol can build up and clog your blood vessels. Too much bad cholesterol can cause a heart attack or stroke. HDL or “good” cholesterol helps remove the “bad” cholesterol from your blood vessels.

Ask your health care team what your cholesterol numbers should be. If you are over 40 years of age, you may need to take a statin drug for heart health. Whether you are you feeling good or not, the above tests are some that you should monitor regularly. Because you are mainly in charge of your own exercise routine, diet plans, and medication schedule, it’s also very important to monitor your health as it can show you areas that you are excelling as well as potentially reveal areas where you can improve.

Sources

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes/4-steps