the challenges, Alper adds.
READ: Diet Key to Better Health in People With Diabetes
A key to changing this situation is education and not just through medical professionals in a doctor’s office but through a nurse educator standing up in church, for example, and talking about diabetes. Employers can also offer education.
“The truth is, especially in 2021, people are getting their medical education from ancillary providers, from nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants and diabetic nurse educators,” Alper says. “And we need to educate these people more and get them out into the public more because these are the ones that people are seeing and getting their care from.”
READ: Diabetes Management: Why Black People Need a Trustworthy Doctor
Managing your diabetes
In order to avoid amputations, you must manage your diabetes well. You should always consult with your doctor for the best solutions. In the meantime you can also try the following:
- Learn about diabetes: The first step to managing your diabetes is learning everything you can about your condition. There are three types of diabetes. You should know which type you have, what it means, where to go for support, the best way to care for your diabetes and what type of medication you will have to take.
- Know your A1C: The A1C is a blood test that measures your average blood sugar level over the past three months. These numbers are different than your daily blood sugar tests. If your numbers are too high, it can cause damage to your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, feet, and eyes. The general A1C goal for people with diabetes is 7, although it may differ for certain people so ask your doctor what your goal should be.
- Keep blood pressure in check: You should regularly be checking your blood pressure. The blood pressure goal for most people with diabetes is below 140/90, although, like with your A1C, the goal may differ for you. Blood pressure is important because if it gets too high, It can cause a heart attack, stroke, and damage to your kidneys and eyes.
- Keep cholesterol in check: You should also be regularly checking your cholesterol in conjunction with A1C and blood pressure. Ask your doctor what your target number should be and jot down your recordings to keep track of your progress.
- Eat healthy: You can make a meal plan with your health care team, but overall you should be opting for foods that are lower in calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar, and salt. Instead add more fiber, such as whole-grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice, or pasta to your diet. You should also eat more fruits, vegetables, and low-fat or skim milk and cheese and replace juice and soda with water.
- Exercise: You can get to a target weight through exercise and a diet plan. Try gradually adding exercise to your daily routine.
- Take medication: Keeping up with your medication is important. If you experience any side effects for your medication, you should consult with your doctor to see about switching medicine.
- Self-checkups: You should check your feet every day for cuts, blisters, red spots, and swelling. Call your health care team right away if you have any sores that do not go away.
- Quit smoking