I saw a bumper sticker the other day that said, “No excuses; just choices”. I love that! I decided to alter it slightly to, “No limits; just choices”, which is how I would describe life with diabetes. It’s all about choices (and balance, of course).
People with diabetes have to make choices all day every day – but then again, so does everyone else! People with diabetes often get bogged down thinking they have certain limits (food being the number one thing that comes to mind), but in reality everything we do, say, and put in our mouths is a choice.
The key is to make healthy choices as often as possible. We do this by arming ourselves with the latest information about managing diabetes. We improve our knowledge base by reading current and reliable sources (for instance, the American Diabetes Association or the National Institutes of Health). Websites sponsored by universities or the government are typically reliable. We also need to advocate for ourselves and our health by finding a health care provider who is knowledgeable and a good fit. Seriously, if you have a health care provider who is not a good fit, your health can suffer.
Physicians who specialize in diabetes are called endocrinologists (specifically, diabetologists). There are not enough endocrinologists out there for all the people with diabetes, so many of us meet with primary care physicians (internists or family practice doctors). In this case it is important to find a primary care physician who has current knowledge about diabetes. There are also nurse practitioners and physician assistants who specialize in diabetes care.
In addition, it’s good to have a certified diabetes educator (CDE) that you meet with regularly. A CDE can be a nurse, dietitian, social worker, pharmacist, exercise physiologist, physical therapist, physician assistant, or physician. You can find the nearest diabetes educator by calling 1-800-TEAM-UP4 (832-6874). A diabetes educator can help you find a good diabetes provider (physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant). This may sound tedious, but it’s a very important step in managing your diabetes and your long-term health. And once again, it’s a choice!
What are some choices you’ve made lately?