How your family medicine doctors in Austin, TX, can help when you are diabetic
Diabetes is a common, and sneaky disease. You can develop diabetes with little to no symptoms. You may not know you have diabetes until the disease has already damaged your body.
Diabetes can damage your body in dramatic ways, including your:
- Immune system, causing delayed healing
- Circulatory system, causing decreased blood flow
- Nervous system, causing impaired sensation
Your family medicine doctor can help you be proactive against diabetes, so you can feel your best.
Dr. Paul Keinarth and Dr. Kelly Alberda at Margolin, Keinarth & Alberda Family Health Center in Austin, TX, provide comprehensive family medical care, including diabetes management.
The first step in being proactive against diabetes is to visit your family medicine doctor to confirm that you have diabetes.Your doctor will do a comprehensive medical examination and order some lab tests to determine your blood sugar levels. After diabetes is confirmed, management and treatment of diabetes can begin.
There are several ways you can be proactive and manage your diabetes. Remember to:
- Avoid foods and beverages which are high in sugar
- Eat whole fruits instead of drinking fruit juices
- Eat protein and complex carbohydrates, instead of simple carbohydrates
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, not soda
- Bring healthy snacks with you in case you have an episode of low blood sugar
You should also get regular exercise of at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. Exercise helps you manage your weight, improves mood, and keeps your body strong. Don’t forget to test your blood sugar regularly and record your readings to give to your doctor. Take your medication as directed.
Visit your family medicine doctor regularly to stay proactive against diabetes. Your doctor can evaluate your diet, lifestyle, medications, and other factors to make sure you are on the right track toward managing your diabetes.
To find out more about how to be proactive against diabetes, talk with the experts. Call Dr. Paul Keinarth and Dr. Kelly Alberda at Margolin, Keinarth & Alberda Family Health Center in Austin, TX. You can reach them in the office by calling (512) 459-9889, so call today.