The ABCs of Diabetes: A1C, Blood Pressure, and Cholesterol Control
Diabetes can be managed through a critical system called the ABCs. Here is what it stands for:
A1C test
Shows average blood glucose level over the past three month (the goal is below 7%)
Ask what your healthcare provider what your specific goal should be
Blood pressure
The goal for most people with diabetes is below 140/90 mm Hg
Ask what your healthcare provider what your specific goal should be
Cholesterol
Two kinds of cholesterol in your blood: LDL and HDL
LDL or “bad” cholesterol can build up and clog blood vessels
Too much bad cholesterol can cause a heart attack or stroke
HDL or “good” cholesterol helps remove the “bad” cholesterol from your blood vessels.
Ask your healthcare team what your cholesterol numbers should be
If over 40 years of age, you may need to take a statin drug for heart health
Stop smoking
Both smoking and diabetes narrow blood vessels, making your heart work harder
Lowers your risk for heart attack, stroke, nerve disease, kidney disease, diabetic eye disease, and amputation
Cholesterol and blood pressure levels may improve
Blood circulation will improve
May have an easier time being physically active
Working towards ABC goals can help lower your chance of diabetes problems including heart attack and stroke. Here are five strategies for managing your ABCs and diabetes in general:
Eat a healthy diet
Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight
Take your medicine
Work with your healthcare team
Cope with your diabetes in healthy ways
Check out this worksheet on how to control the ABCs of diabetes. If you are looking to get recipe recommendations, head to Easy Platter and view recipes specifically for diabetes management.