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Blood Sugar Levels

US.GLA.12.09.149

• Know Your
  Numbers,
  00:38
• Keeping a Blood
  Sugar Log,
  00:32
• Taking Action,
  Real Life Examples,
  00:56
• Play All,
  02:09

Keep a blood sugar log and review it

Checking your blood sugar levels is important in helping you reach your blood sugar goals. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how often and when to check. You can use our blood sugar log to keep a record of your results. You’ll then have a picture of your body’s response to your diabetes treatment plan that will help your doctor better understand how your treatment is going.

For example, if your readings are higher than what your doctor recommends, you may need to:

• Reduce the amount of food you are eating
• Increase your physical activity
• Ask your doctor about adjusting your treatment plan

Review your blood sugar log often to see how food, activity, and stress affect your blood glucose readings. If you keep seeing the same patterns — for instance, if your levels are too high or too low — it might be time to find a plan that works better for you. Work with your doctor to understand what these patterns mean and how they may affect your treatment plan.

Better Blood Sugar Control and You

Take Your Medicine as Prescribed

For your diabetes, your doctor probably has prescribed a healthy diet, exercise, and oral medications. It is important to follow your treatment plan, including taking all medications prescribed, to help control your blood sugar.

Plan Your Meals

Controlling your carbohydrates is one way to help control your blood sugar. A free meal planning guide can help you get started.

Be Physically Active

Adding regular physical activity to your meal plan and medications can help control your blood sugar levels. Sometimes it helps to have the support of your friends or family members to keep you motivated. Let your healthcare team know before you start, stop, or increase your physical activity levels.

Monitor and Record Your Blood Sugar Levels

Regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels helps you and your healthcare team to find the right balance of diet, physical activity, and medication to meet your A1C goals.

Talk With Your Healthcare Team Regularly

You play an important role in your diabetes care. Always keep scheduled appointments, and keep your healthcare team informed of changes in your life that may affect your blood sugar. It’s not only important to you but to those who care about you.