Diabetes team ready to give advice

July 12, 2011

PEOPLE with diabetes looking for information, support or answers to their questions can call the Australian Diabetes Council customer service team for advice.

A range of dietitians, diabetes educators and exercise physiologists are available over the phone during business hours to offer guidance.

The council said good diabetes management required a healthy lifestyle that included regular physical activity, healthy eating and regular appointments with your diabetes team.

Ten steps people with diabetes should adhere to:

Step 1: Follow a healthy eating plan which is low in fat, particularly saturated fat, high in fibre and includes carbohydrates in each meal.

Step 2: Participate in regular planned physical activity — aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise on most days.

Step 3: Monitor your blood glucose levels and aim to keep them in your recommended range. Your range and the frequency of testing should be determined by your diabetes team.

Step 4:

Have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked and treated as required.

Step 5:

Drink alcoholic

beverages in moderation.

Step 6:

Don’t smoke.

Step 7:

Check your feet

daily for any changes.

Step 8:

Have regular eye examinations.