Living with type 1 diabetes can cause damage to small blood vessels in the kidneys, which can lead to serious problems.The impact to the kidneys can be minimized by controlling blood sugar levels.If you follow your doctor's plan closely and make adjustments on a regular basis, tight control can be achieved.You can prevent diabetes-related damage to your kidneys by working with your doctor to keep your blood sugars under control and to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Step 1: Don't forget to test your blood sugar.
It's important to check your blood sugar regularly to make sure you don't cause long-term harm to your body.Follow your doctor's instructions for when and how often to test.If you don't already have an established testing schedule, call your doctor or make an appointment and ask, "When throughout the day should I be checking my blood sugar?" Most people with type 1 test at least four to eight times per day, more for increased activity levels, during illness
Step 2: If your blood sugar is above normal, talk to your doctor.
A typical pre-meal level for people with diabetes is 80-130.Talk to your doctor if you have a high blood sugar level.This is a general range, though, so you should refer to the parameters set by your doctor.
Step 3: It is possible to create well-portioned meals.
Carbohydrates have been shown to raise blood sugar levels.Try to eat balanced meals with 20% to 30% of calories coming from lean protein and no more than 40% calories.Whole grains should be included in your diet at every meal.To make sure you are getting the right amount of food, take the time to weigh it out.The serving size and accompanying nutrition information can be found on food labels.If a standard meal plan isn't helping you keep your blood sugar under control, talk to your doctor, diabetes educator, or registered dietitian about changing it.You can find healthy, diabetes-friendly recipes online.There is a guide from the American Diabetes Association.
Step 4: Take it with you.
If you have been prescribed medication by your doctor, you should take it.These medications can affect your body's ability to regulate blood sugar and avoid long-term health damage.If you haven't been prescribed any medication by your doctor, you may have a reason.Ask your doctor if there is any medication you should be taking to control your diabetes.
Step 5: It's important to exercise regularly.
Exercise helps control your blood pressure level as well as your overall bodily health, both of which greatly impact your kidney function.Aim for 30 to 45 minutes of moderate cardiovascular exercise four to five times a week.You can do anything from walking to swimming.The exercise should be challenging, but not so much that it will interfere with proper movement or function later on.Taking the stairs instead of the elevator is one way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine.
Step 6: You should lower your cholesterol.
Plaque build up in your blood vessels can be caused by high LDL cholesterol.Diabetes can cause damage to the kidneys, so get your cholesterol under control.Make heart-healthy food choices such as opting for olive oil and increasing your fiber intake.Follow action plans to quit smoking and excessive drinking.If necessary, seek help from professionals or support groups.
Step 7: Seek attention for high blood pressure.
If a balanced diet and regular exercise aren't helping you control high blood pressure, you should seek help from a medical professional.Your doctor may be able to recommend a drug that will help regulate high blood pressure and slow the progression of diabetes.Before taking any blood pressure regulating medication or supplements, consult with your doctor.Let them know that I want to find a way to control my blood pressure.Not all Type I diabetes patients have high blood pressure.If your blood pressure is under control, you should check regularly.
Step 8: Ask for regular tests.
If you're worried about the health of your kidneys, ask for regular tests from your doctor.They should monitor indicators of damage to the kidneys.It's a good idea to have a urine or blood test every year.If your blood sugar has stayed within a healthy rage over the last two to three months, it's time to talk to your doctor about an HbA1c test.A high result increases your risk of injury.Your doctor can use the results of this test to make changes to your treatment plan.Let your doctor know if you are taking a drug that can affect the urine test.
Step 9: Take a moment to review your routine.
Review your diet, exercise, and medication with your doctor after testing.They can get a better understanding of what is working and what may need to be modified if you tell them what you have and have not been doing.To help you review your routine, meet with a team of specialists.Talk to people who specialize in helping people with diabetes, along with your doctor.You should communicate with your team.Let your doctor know what your diet is like.
Step 10: Ask about the right equipment.
If you want to take better control of your diabetes, you may be able to use a pump or monitor.Ask your doctor about the best ways to monitor your blood sugar.There are machines that may or may not benefit your situation.Before either is added to your treatment plan, ask your doctor about the advantages and disadvantages.