Medication

If you use insulin you should monitor your blood glucose (hemoglucotest) as often as indicated by the doctor, and administer the indicated insulin dose with the supervision of the doctor and specialized and/or trained personnel. Keep a record of the doses, dates, and times of insulin application.

If you use oral antidiabetic medication, comply with the prescription regularly. Write down the name of the medications and take them with you when you visit the doctor. Your doctor must verify that you are taking the correct medication.

Exercises

Exercise every day: walking or going up and downstairs for 15 to 30 minutes keeps your aerobic and cardiovascular condition at an optimal level. Stretch for 5 minutes before and after exercise.

Nutrition

Food is one of the essential pillars for good control of diabetes.

For patients with diabetes should keep the blood glucose level and weight within adequate and regular limits, normalize the lipid profile and keep good control of blood pressure. For this, it is important to follow the following recommendations:

• Eliminate the consumption of brown or white sugar, honey, sugary drinks. Use sweeteners.
• Increase the consumption of foods rich in fiber such as vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
• Limit fruit to a maximum of 2 to 3 servings a day.
• Limit salt intake.
• Avoid high-fat preparations such as fried foods.
• Divide and consume meals in small quantities.
• Establish meal times and do not skip them.
• Daily exercise for 30 minutes or 150 minutes per week.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
• Limit coffee to 1 to 2 cups a day.
• Find and maintain the ideal weight for your age.
• Comply with the indication of your doctor and/or nutritionist.
• Remember: you do not have to stop eating, but choose healthy foods and moderate amounts.
  

Bath/hygiene

• Practice your personal hygiene (bathing) looking for the presence of wounds, blisters, and skin coloration, especially on the feet.
• Wash your feet every day (with warm water, dry well the area between the toes using a paper towel).
• Cut your toenails every week or when necessary under good lighting and avoiding skin lacerations, go to the podiatrist if necessary.
• Monitor any skin wounds, keep clean with soap and water, and inform your doctor or diabetes team if there are changes in color or temperature.
• Remember to keep proper oral hygiene to avoid complications with the gums. Visit your dentist regularly.

General care

• Monitor your blood pressure frequently.
• Check your weight daily to know the variations with different diets and activities.
• Keep a good social relationship, either with family and/or friends to reduce and prevents anxiety and depression.
• Wear loose socks and shoes for good blood circulation and free movement of the toes.
• Ensure good blood flow to the feet (lift your feet when sitting, do not cross your legs for a long time).