Crofton Office

1657 Crofton Blvd, Suite 201

Crofton, MD 21114

(410) 721-4505

(410) 721-2394

Woodbridge Office

14010 Smoketown Rd., Suite 103

Woodbridge, VA 22192

(703) 583-5959

(703) 890-4970

Chantilly Office

3914 Centreville Road, Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 490-5599

(703) 583-5995

Sterling Office

46440 Benedict Dr., Suite 111

Sterling, VA 20164

(703) 444-9555

Lifestyle Changes to Help Diabetics

After a diagnosis of diabetes, you may begin to worry about how you’re going to handle your body’s changes. Since blood sugar levels can spike or drop unexpectedly, it’s important to focus on some of the following key changes in your lifestyle.

  • Eat healthy: One of the best ways to help regulate your blood sugar levels is by eating consistent healthy meals. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, fat, and carbohydrates (which turn into sugar). Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as lean meats are part of a nutritional diet for diabetics. Your medication will have a direct affect on how much food you eat. Too little food could be countered with too much insulin, resulting in a drop in blood sugar, and too much food could mean too little insulin, resulting in a spike in blood sugar.  
  • Use and store medication properly: Because medication is so important to proper function, be sure to use and store them properly. Expired or tainted meds can make insulin ineffective.
  • Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively. Sports, walking, and even gardening use glucose, which can improve blood sugar levels. Remember to keep track of your blood sugar levels so that you do not risk injury from levels that are too low or too high.
  • Manage stress: Stress can make your blood sugar go up. It can also make you lose track of your schedule, eat more or less, and forget to exercise. These things can cause chaos in controlling your blood sugar levels, so you should find ways to manage stress, like scheduling rest, and activities like taking a walk or practicing yoga.
  • Reduce drinking alcohol and stop smoking: These unhealthy habits can make it harder to manage your blood sugar levels. Smoking can make risk of complications higher, especially for cardiovascular and kidney disease. When you drink too much alcohol, not only can you lose track of blood sugar levels, you may not be prudent with glucose tests and/or administering the appropriate amount of insulin medication.
  • Use orthotic shoes: For our patients that have started to experience diabetic neuropathy, you may want to look into shoes that are geared for safety and comfort. When your feet lose sensation, you won’t know if your muscles or ligaments are uncomfortable or in pain. It’s best to wear shoes that are protective (from injury), supportive, and cushioned to prevent issues.

Additionally, here are some tips for taking care of diabetic feet. Be sure to check your feet each day for any new signs of injury. If you are unsure about caring for diabetic feet, consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505 to receive a thorough assessment. Our team is ready to assist you at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie, MD areas.

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Office Hours

(We have new hours as below!)

Crofton Podiatry

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-3:30 pm

Friday:

By Appointment Only

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed