New Year's Resolutions

We find ourselves once again at the end of one year and at the beginning of a new year.  It seems normal to reflect on what we’ve done this past year, and what we want to achieve in the next.  For those of us who have diabetes, we may choose to improve our health. Here are eight areas of diabetes to focus on when making your New Years resolutions.

1.    Exercise regularly – Gradually aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity 5 days per week per American Diabetic Association Guidelines. Exercise can help control blood sugar levels, relieves stress, and improve overall health.

2.    Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly – Whether you use a blood glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor, keeping track of your blood sugar levels can help you and your diabetes care team understand trends and make better decisions.

3.    Medications – Take medications as prescribed. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and take your medications as prescribed, so the doctor will know what's working or not working for you.
4.    Sleep – Lack of sleep can negatively affect your blood sugar levels, so it’s important to get enough rest.  Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. 

5.    Manage Stress – Increased stress may raise blood sugar levels, so it is important to find ways to manage stress, try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga. 

6.    Eat a healthy and balanced diet – Eating 3 regular, well-balanced meals per day may help with blood glucose control and weight loss.  Take a few minutes each week to create menus and meal plans for each week for greater success with sticking to your eating goals. 

7.    Yearly Exams for general physical, eyes, dental, and labs to keep a closer eye on your body and diabetes. 

8.    Learn more about your diabetes – the more you understand about your diabetes, the better prepared you will be to manage it. Consider taking a   Diabetes Education Individual or Group Class to refresh or help manage your diabetes.  Did you know.... that Medicare will pay up to 13 hours of instructional education one time and 4 hours of learning each year after initial diabetes education.

By focusing and working towards these goals or New Year’s Resolutions, we can greatly improve our health and well-being.  Here at Freeman Diabetes Education Center, we wish the best for you on your 2025 health journey and will be here for you to help you meet your goals.