Health Tips for February 19

Health Tip: Take Control of Your Diabetes

Keeping your blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible can help prevent complications of diabetes.

But how do you get started?

The American Diabetes Association offers these suggestions:

• Make changes gradually, rather than trying to do everything at once. Start with a single change, such as checking your blood sugar more often.
• Take an honest look at how you're coping with being diabetic, and deal with any issues such as anger or depression.
• Be realistic about what you can accomplish, and understand that you can't always have perfect blood sugar. With practice, you can learn to administer the right insulin dose for different situations.
• If the demands of the disease get overwhelming, allow yourself a small break from the new routine, then start again as quickly as possible.

Health Tip: Why Diabetics Can Become Hyperglycemic

It's important for diabetics to keep their blood sugar (glucose) levels stable. That means taking all medication as prescribed, and following a healthy lifestyle.

When blood glucose levels become too high, the medical condition is called hyperglycemia. The American Diabetes Association offers this list of potential causes:

• If you're a type 1 diabetic, getting insufficient insulin.
• If you're a type 2 diabetic, the insulin your body produces may not be processed effectively.
• Overeating, or lack of exercise.
• Having an illness or infection.
• Being under emotional stress.