7 Steps for Better Living With Diabetes This information has been reviewed and approved by Dthia Kalkwarf, RN, (March 2024). Summary: 7 Steps For Better Living With Diabetes1. Eat HealthyEat lots of vegetables and fruitReduce or eliminate sugary foods and drinksWatch or reduce carbsWatch portion sizesEat regular mealsLose 10-20 pounds if you are overweight2. Be ActiveExercise 5 days a weekBe active 30 minutes a dayLose 10-20 pounds if you are overweight3. MonitorCheck your blood sugar levels; know your A1CCheck your blood pressure, cholesterol, eyes, feet and teeth4. Take MedicationKnow your pills and insulins, understand how they work and take the right doses at the right times5. Problem SolveRecognize your high and low blood sugars, understand what caused them and learn to treat and prevent them6. Reduce RiskQuit smokingDo regular health exams (eye, foot & dental)See your doctor regularly for check-ups and tests7. Cope WellGet support from your family, friends and diabetes care teamSet realistic goals and work toward them More Information on DiabetesDiabetes Health InfoDiabetes Self-Management Patient Education ProgramManaging Your MedicationsNutritionHealthy RecipesExerciseDivision of Specialty ServicesWalk With a DocMake an AppointmentFind a DoctorWant to use this on your website? Fill out the content usage request form and then copy this code: