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Defeat Diabetes Foundation

Defeat Diabetes
Foundation
150 153rd Ave,
Suite 300
Madeira Beach, FL 33708

DIABeducation™

By Theresa Garnero, APRN, BC-ADM, MSN, CDE

Recipe For Diabetes Health

Do you like to follow recipes? A recipe is merely a formula for success. It requires measuring, following certain steps, taking a little more care in creating something wonderful so you can pretty much guarantee the outcome.

We have the recipe for diabetes health! We know the numbers and actions needed to prevent and in some cases, reverse complications typically associated with uncontrolled diabetes. So, how are we doing? According to information shared during the annual American Association of Diabetes Educators in, less than 2% of people with diabetes have the four main ingredients for diabetes health.

How can that be possible? The answer to that is somewhat complicated. Most people with diabetes see a primary care physician to manage their diabetes, that is, if they are lucky enough to have some type of health care insurance. The average visit in a doctor’s office is 7 minutes. Studies show that many physicians do not know the target ranges for key diabetes tests. Having a physician who is able to oversee and successfully tackle all key areas is a challenge. Plus, it is not all up to the physicians. People with diabetes are responsible for 95% of their daily management. Since less than half of people with diabetes ever see a certified diabetes educator, it is no wonder people are unaware of the ingredients for diabetes health!

The 4 main ingredients:

A1C less than 7% (the blood test which shows a three month blood glucose average); check at least twice a year if in control or every 3 months if your level is not less than 7%.
LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) less than 70. This is commonly referred to as the “bad” cholesterol and a high level increases the risk of heart disease. Check at least once a year, more if not in control.
Blood pressure less than 130/80. Check every visit with your doctor. In my daily practice, I hear time and time again, “It’s only high when I go to the doctor. It’s fine at home.” If it is above 130/80 at the doctor’s office when you are under a little stress, it is high other times, just not being measured. Get a home blood pressure cuff and monitor yourself.
Baby aspirin, 81 mg daily (caution: get your doctor’s approval before starting aspirin therapy).

This recipe is may require you get some assistance from the experts. No, not the gourmet cooks, but the certified diabetes educators and your health care team of physicians who can partner with you to cook up the perfect picture of diabetes health!