Belmont Shore Physical Therapy wishes everyone a...

November is...

American Diabetes Month

Diabetes is the most common disorder of the endocrine system. Diabetes can occur when the body cannot regulate blood sugars. Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented by type 2 diabetes has modifiable risk factors which can help lower your risk for the disease. 

Living with Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes management is composed of a handful of elements: blood glucose control and insulin management, exercise, nutrition, and support. Type 2 diabetes is first treated with weight reduction, a diabetic diet and exercise. Weight reduction and exercising increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, thus controlling blood sugar elevations.

Diet- a well balanced diet that is high in fiber, low on saturated fat, and low in concentrated sweets with a consistent number of calories will help control blood sugar.

Exercise- regular exercise can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and it will keep your blood glucose levels more stable. It can also reduce the risk of developing complications of diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage, etc.

Monitor blood glucose levels- self check blood glucose levels frequently. A log of these levels allows your health provider to determine if the current treatment is effective or if changes need to be made. 

Support- Emotional support, while not often initially considered, plays a key role in diabetes care. Connecting with other people living with diabetes, that understand how it feels to count carbs, test blood glucose levels multiple times each day, and dealing with various highs and lows(both physical and emotional) of life with diabetes can make all the difference.