Tips & Tricks: Reducing the Risk of Complications from Diabetes
Schedule an Annual Eye Check-Up
The Harmony Healthcare Long Island of Westbury and Freeport offer comprehensive eye care. Patients can call Harmony Healthcare Long Island Westbury office at (516) 571-9500 or its Freeport office at (516) 623-3600 to make an appointment.
Check Your Feet Daily
Before putting on your shoes or socks, examine your feet for any color changes, swelling, or other differences from the previous day. Any changes in the feet, no matter how small they may seem, are often warning signs of something under the surface.
Manage Your Sugar Levels
Monitor your blood sugar level with your A1c. If you are taking insulin you should also monitor your sugar levels several times a day also. Patients who are the most committed and who monitor their blood glucose and who know when and what to eat, experience the best outcomes and the fewest complications. Different foods affect blood glucose levels differently.
Eat Right
A healthy diet is important. For good eye health, eat fruits and vegetables, Omega 3 fatty acids (such as those found in salmon and other seafood as well as nuts and seeds), and probiotics, which help to regulate the gastrointestinal system and balance sugar levels.
Don’t smoke
Smoking puts stress on the circulatory system, especially the feet, which are the farthest parts of the body from the heart, Dr. Nester said.
Stay Active
People with diabetes should exercise regularly. Exercise helps circulation and can lower blood glucose levels. “Managing one’s diabetes effectively is the cornerstone of good foot, vision, and overall health,” Dr. Nester said. “In our practice at the Harmony Healthcare Long Island, we’re helping patients to learn about good foot and vision health and to make healthy changes, which will hopefully lead to lifelong healthy habits.”
