Four Steps to Control Diabetes
Diabetes is not curable but it can surely be managed and controlled. It is important for a diabetic to follow certain guidelines so that their diabetes remains under check. If you too are a part of the same queue then following are the four major steps that can help you control diabetes.

Educate yourself
Understanding the disease will help you deal with it better. Diabetes is defined as the condition where blood glucose levels are much above normal. There are two type of diabetes- type 1 and type 2. As a sufferer it is important for you to know the type of diabetes you are suffering from.

Left unchecked diabetes can lead to several more severe conditions such as heart disease and stroke, eye disease resulting in vision problems or even blindness, and nerve damage which can eventually result in the loss of a feet or hand, kidney problems, gum disease or the loss of teeth.

Learn the 'ABC' of Diabetes
"A", here stands for the A1C test which shows you your blood glucose levels over the previous three months. The ideal A1C goal for most people is below 7. It should be checked at least twice a year.

"B" stands for blood pressure where the ideal reading should be around 130/80. "C" is for cholesterol and the ideal LDL level should be less than 100.

Diabetes management
Certain lifestyle changes can make a world of difference to your wellbeing and appropriate management of diabetes. A well balanced diet, regular exercise, taking supplements or diabetic vitamins, drinking beverages such as green tea, plenty of water, decaf coffee and red wine and sleeping well are all key to a healthier existence with diabetes in complete check.

Get routine care
Last but not least, ensure that you get the best possible care to combat the condition. Meet up with your health care provider at least twice each year and once there do get a thorough physical examination done including blood pressure, foot and weight check and a review of your self-care plan.

Understanding the disease and taking stock of the many symptoms and possible solutions to them will help you manage diabetes better. And, while there may be no cure, there is nothing to prevent you from leading a healthy life even with the presence of diabetes.

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