What are some cost effective ways to address diabetes on the individual level?

 

Diabetes is a chronic non-communicable disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin produced. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Hyperglycemia, or elevated blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body systems, especially the nerves (diabetic neuropathy) and blood vessels.

Some cost-effective ways that an individual would use to address diabetes include:

• Attaining/achieving a healthy weight. Obesity is one of the predisposing factors of diabetes.
• Eating a healthy diet- reducing/avoiding sugar intake, saturated fats, sugar-sweetened beverages. A balanced diet which follows a diabetic nutritional plan is also helpful. Coordinating and balancing meals with medications is also necessary; too much food may cause hyperglycemia while little food may cause hypoglycemia, which is fatal.
• Exercise- physical activity is an important aspect of a diabetes management plan. Regular exercises help our muscles to use glucose to produce energy. it is advisable to check your blood sugar levels before, during and after exercises (especially during strenuous exercises). Staying hydrated and being always prepared with a snack or glucose tablets and wearing a bracelet is important in cases where your blood sugar levels drop.
• Avoiding tobacco and alcohol use- Cessation of smoking and drinking would help reduce your chances of getting diabetes and cardiovascular disease and reduce and avoid complications.
•  Annual screening for diabetic retinopathy and ensuing treatment in persons with diabetes early signs of diabetes-related kidney disease
• Foot care- comprehensive foot care and patient education to prevent and treat foot ulcers among those at moderate/high risk of developing foot ulcers are important. It involves, patient self-care by maintaining foot hygiene; wearing appropriate footwear; seeking professional care for ulcer management.