Diabetes Primetime: The Ups & Downs of Diabetes

– Give yourself credit for your efforts, even if your blood sugar numbers aren’t exactly where you’d like them to be! Whether it be reducing late night snacks, going for an extra walk, or eating more plant foods, credit yourself for healthy behaviors.

– Look at your blood sugar numbers with curiosity, not judgment. Even if you test your blood sugars after eating the same foods on different days, they will not be the same. Instead of judging them, try to use them as a tool to understand common or uncommon themes in your sugars.

– What is the formula for success in dealing with diabetes? Dr. Vallis identifies 3 hurdles to overcome.

• Disease Acceptance: No one wants to have diabetes, but coming to terms with the diagnosis is crucial. This may come and go in waves, and that’s okay!
• Treatment Acceptance: Your attitude towards medical treatments (like medications), your thoughts on needing it, and any potential concerns are critically important. Be sure to explain your thoughts to your doctor.
• Readiness for Self-Management: Are you ready to manage your diabetes? Change is hard!

– Focus on why being healthy matters to you to help you make healthy decisions. For  example, thinking about the risks associated with diabetes, or wanting to be there for your grandchildren, may motivate you to increase healthy behaviors.

– Genes play a big role in Type II Diabetes. People often feel that their diagnosis is their fault, when often genes can be to blame.

– Talk to family members & close friends about how you want them to help you and your diabetes – this way, they’re less likely to be “the diabetes police.” Set boundaries if needed. Educating them on what diabetes actually is can also be helpful – this video may be a great one to send out.