A Day in the Life of a Diabetic
Justina Ofosu
Background on the biology of type 2 diabetes
- The pancreas makes extra insulin to make up for not producing it properly.
- Type 2 diabetes is treated with lifestyle changes, oral medications, and insulin.
- High blood sugar may hurt your eyes, kidneys, nerves or heart overtime.
- Poor blood flow or changes in the shape of your feet or toes may also cause problems.
- Diabetes can cause changes in the skin of your feet.
- Nerves that control the oil and moisture in your feet no longer work.
- Calluses occur more often and build up faster on the feet of people with diabetes.
- Poor circulation can make your foot less able to fight infection and to heal.
- Diabetes causes blood vessels of the foot and leg to narrow and harden.
Basic recommendations for a diabetic diet
- Proteins- Aim for two or three servings of seafood each week, have heart healthy omega-3 fats, eat a variety of beans.
- Grains- Eat whole grains such as wild rice, quinoa, and whole grain breads and cereals contain fiber.
- Dairy- Eat plain Greek yogurt because it only has 6 to 8 grams of carbohydrates.
- Vegetables- Non-starchy vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, and carrots are low in carbohydrates and high in fiber and other nutrients.
- Fruits- Fresh fruit can conquer your craving for sweets while providing antioxidants and fiber.
- Fats- Choose monosaturated fats found in avocados, almonds, and pecans or the polysaturated fats found in walnuts and sunflower oil, which can help lower bad cholesterol.
How is blood sugar monitored and adjusted in type 2 diabetes
Recommendations for exercise and lifestyle/ How does staying fit relate to controlling diabetes
Aerobic exercise
Strength training
People who exercise with diabetes: lower blood glucose levels, lower blood pressure, better cholesterol levels, improved ability to use insulin, decreased risk of stroke, decreased risk of heart disease, stronger bones, less chance of falling, easier weight loss, less body fat, more energy, reduced stress levels.
3 Biomedical professionals that could assist a diabetic and what they do
Endocrinologist: A doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kids and teens with diseases of the endocrine system.
Dietitians: Experts in nutrition and meal planning. Teach you about how food affects your blood sugar levels and make sure you're getting enough food to grow and develop properly.
Mental Health Professional: Help you address problems you may be dealing with at home or at school. Also, help find ways to manage your diabetes.