Diabetes affects 37 million Americans of all ages and races and is caused by too much blood sugar, called glucose, in your blood. The disease can damage the eyes, kidneys, heart, blood vessels, and nerves. If you have diabetes, it takes a team of support, and you are the most important part of this team.
Blue KC wants to partner with you through this journey and offers these tips to manage your diabetes.
- Learn about diabetes
It’s important to learn as much as you can about diabetes from your healthcare providers. Blue KC also offers programs and registered nurse support at no additional cost to help educate you and meet your goals. - Manage diabetes
It’s important to manage your diabetes early on. The ABCs of diabetes management are an easy way to help keep it under control.
A is for A1C, the most important blood test to check if your diabetes is well controlled. A1C measures your average blood sugar over the last three months and is the best indicator that diabetes may be causing harm to your heart, kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels. Ask your physician about this test and what your latest results are.
B is for blood pressure, which is the force of blood against the blood vessels. For diabetics, it’s important to keep your blood pressure within a normal range to help protect your blood vessels. Talk with your physician about your blood pressure and how you can keep your numbers down.
C is for cholesterol. There are two main types of cholesterol – HDL or “good cholesterol” and LDL or “bad cholesterol.” LDL can clog blood vessels and puts diabetics at higher risk for stroke. Talk to your physician about your cholesterol numbers and whether you should be on a statin or cholesterol lowering drug. - Eat healthy and get moving
Your diet plays an important part in managing diabetes and should include a variety of vegetables, fruit, low-fat meats, and whole grains. How much you eat, what you eat, and how often you eat directly impacts your blood sugars. By carefully monitoring your diet, you can keep your blood sugars in the target range, improve your cholesterol, and help lower your blood pressure.
Exercise is a great way to keep your blood sugars in the target range. Exercise is key to helping lose or maintain weight, increase your energy, and prevent complications from diabetes.
Connect with the Blue KC Care Management team
Eating better and increasing your exercise can be a challenge with diabetes. The Blue KC Care Management team can help you manage your healthcare with confidence. One of the easiest ways to connect with the team is through the Blue KC Care Management app, where you can connect 24/7 with a nurse to discuss concerns and to get support for your diet, exercise, and health goals.
Download the Care Management app today
- Scan the QR code below or search the App Store or Google Play for Blue KC Care Management
- Create an account using access code kchelpwelcome
If you would like to speak with a Blue KC RN or have questions, please contact us at 816-395-2060 or 1-866-859-3813, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time.