Tip 2- Control your blood sugar to keep your feet healthy! Your fasting blood sugar should be between 80-120 mg/dL for optimal health of your feet. It is important that you check your blood sugar at least once per day and that you keep a record of the readings.
You can control your sugar by eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting exercise (5 days per week for 30 minutes). Talk to your doctor about what type of exercise is best for you. Swimming, walking, dancing, and biking are often good choices but depend on your individual health. Your diet should consist of properly portioned lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. Speak to your doctor about what fruits will be best for you and help you to maintain your blood sugar at the appropriate level. Be careful of white bread, white rice, tortillas, and potatoes, as these can elevate your blood sugar. Also, cake, ice cream, pie, muffins, cookies, and other sweets will elevate your blood sugar. If you need help with your diet, ask your medical doctor to refer you to a dietician or diabetes education class.
Elevated blood sugar for prolonged periods can cause bad things to happen to the feet: nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), delayed healing, infections, and sores on the feet. Additionally, it can have devastating effects on other systems of the body.
Presented by Dr. Bender, 6931 W. North Ave., Oak Park, IL, 708-763-0580
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