“Left unmanaged, diabetes is a common cause of blindness and kidney failure,” says Jason Hollander, MD, an endocrinologist on the Medical Staff of Penn Medicine Princeton Health, “and chronic infections as a result of diabetes can result in loss of limbs, particularly in the lower extremities. You also have a much higher rate of heart attacks and stroke in individuals who are diabetic.”
There are two types of the disease, says Dr. Hollander, who is board certified in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism. Type 1 diabetes is caused by a malfunction within the body, while type 2 diabetes develops as a result of lifestyle choices.
Focus on a Healthy Lifestyle
Individuals with type 1 diabetes must take insulin as part of their treatment, while those with type 2 diabetes can often avoid the need for insulin treatment if they take the necessary steps to control the condition. When it comes to successfully controlling type 2 diabetes, there are several things to keep in mind — making the appropriate lifestyle changes, properly monitoring blood sugar, and remaining under a doctor’s care to identify and treat any complications that may develop.
Maintaining a diet that focuses on vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats such as nuts and avocados is important. Fruits should be limited, since they contain sugar, and sweets and starches should be eaten rarely, if at all.
Physical activity is also extremely important when it comes to managing diabetes. “That does not mean you have to suddenly start going to the gym or commit to a major exercise program. It all depends on your capabilities. The goal is to get moving — walk, even if at the start that simply means doing your grocery shopping in person rather than having food delivered through an online service.”
Blood sugar should be spot checked, ideally a few hours after eating. “Taking your blood sugar first thing in the morning and having good numbers does not take into account your diet,” says Dr. Hollander. “Taking it a few hours after you eat will give you a clear picture of how what you eat impacts your blood sugar. Those numbers will help motivate you to change your eating habits.”
Following your doctor’s recommendation for regular blood work to track your blood sugar levels over an extended period of time is also important.
“The goal really is to do all of these things in order to not just manage your blood sugar but also to prevent diabetes from causing medical complications,” says Dr. Hollander.
To find a primary care physician affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Health, call 1.888.742.7496, or click here.