Do This Every Day:

Follow the healthy eating plan that you and your doctor or dietitian have worked out. Be active a total of 30 minutes most days. Ask your doctor what activities are best for you.

Take your diabetes medicines at the same times.

Check your blood glucose. Each time you check your blood glucose, write the number in your record book.

Check your feet for cuts, blisters, sores, swelling, redness or sore toenails.

Brush and floss your teeth and gums.

Don't smoke.

At Every Checkup, Your Doctor Should Check:
Your blood glucose records: Show them to your health care provider, and tell him/her if you often have hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) or high blood glucose.

Your weight: Talk with your health care provider about how much you should weigh. Talk about ways to reach your goal that will work for you.

Your blood pressure: The goal for most people with diabetes is less than 130/80. Ask your health care provider about ways to reach your goal.

Your diabetes medication plan: Talk to your health care provider about any problems you have had with your diabetes medicines.

Your feet: Ask your health care provider to check your feet for sores.

Your plan for exercise: Talk with your health care provider about what you do to stay active.

Your meal plan: Talk about what you eat, how much you eat and when you eat.

Your feelings: Ask your health care provider about ways to handle stress. If you are feeling sad or unable to cope with problems, ask about how to get help.

Your smoking: If you smoke, talk with your health care provider about how you can quit.
 
 

Do This At Least Twice Each Year:

A1C test: Have this blood test at least twice a year. Your result will tell you what your average blood glucose level was for the past two to three months.

Blood lipid (fats) lab tests: Get a blood test to check your
Total cholesterol -- aim for under 200
LDL -- aim for under 100
HDL -- men: aim for above 40; women: aim for above 50
Triglycerides -- aim for under 150
These test results will help you plan how to prevent heart attack and stroke.

Kidney function tests: Ask for tests to check your urine for protein. The results will tell you how well your kidneys are working.

Dilated eye exam: See your eye doctor once a year for a complete eye exam.

Dental exam: See your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

Flu shot: Get a flu shot each year.

Foot exam: Ask your health care provider to check your feet to make sure your foot nerves and your blood circulation are OK.

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