Diabetic Living Australia - July-August 2018

(Nancy Kaufman) #1
4 Mind
and spirit
You deal with a lot of
stress, and that can bring
on depression. If you’re
feeling hopeless, sad or
angry for more than two
weeks, talk to your doctor.
Depression medication
or talk therapy can help.
In the meantime, try
meditation or
yoga to relax.
Even going
for a short
walk may
make you
feel better.

Cholesterol
If your glucose numbers
are high, your cholesterol
numbers tend to be off, too.
Need to correct yours? Focus on fibre,
exercise regularly, limit fried and
processed foods, and eat healthy fats
such as almonds, fish and avocado in
moderation. If needed, your doctor
may put you on cholesterol-lowering
meds, such as statins.

3


5


Eyes
Years of high blood
glucose levels can cause
the small blood vessels in
your retina (the “seeing”
part of the eye) to bleed,
which can detach it and
cause blindness – so it’s
important to maintain
tight control. Note vision
changes, such as floating
specks, and get a yearly
dilated eye exam.

Gums
Chronic high blood
glucose can cause
gum disease and
dental issues, so see a dentist
every six months and report
any bleeding, tender or red
gums, as well as bad breath.
Brush for at least two minutes
twice a day and floss.

6


management

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