MakatiMed's guide to managing diabetes

MANILA, Philippines - Many individuals diagnosed with diabetes feel overwhelmed upon finding out that they have it, primarily because they know that it is a sickness that has no discovered cure yet. However, the good news is that despite this, diabetes can be managed on a day-to-day basis. And with proper care and management of the disease, patients can go on enjoying life to the fullest.

A diabetes expert at leading hospital Makati Medical Center reveals the realities of living with diabetes and the basics of managing the condition.

Dr. May Sison of MakatiMed’s Diabetes Care Center shares that diabetic individuals have to keep a close watch on their food intake. “Healthy eating is crucial in any diabetes management plan,” she says. “And for someone with diabetes, this means more than just putting together a well-balanced meal — it also means managing your portions and knowing when to eat, as both of these also affect blood sugar level.”

She recommends sticking to a food schedule and aligning this with one’s medication plan. “Blood sugar levels reach their peak an hour or two after a meal, after which they start to fall. To lessen the number of changes in sugar levels, it’s best to eat several small meals in a day — or just have a healthy snack in between meals. Consult your doctor on how to properly coordinate this plan with your medications.”

 “Exercising involves the use of your muscles, which utilize glucose or sugar as a source of energy,” Dr. Sison reveals. “Through regular exercise, you can improve the way that your body responds to insulin, which ultimately helps in lowering blood sugar levels.”

She advises diabetic individuals to put together an exercise and fitness plan, with the help of a medical expert. “Consult your doctor about which type of exercise best meets your specific needs, and make sure to adjust your insulin plan according to your exercise schedule as necessary.” Dr. Sison also reminds patients to stay hydrated and monitor their blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercising.

Of course, the third essential component of proper diabetes management is taking regular medications, which are designed to lower blood sugar level. “Just like the other aspects of your diabetes plan, scheduling is important,” Dr. Sison points out. “Timing and dosage are two things to always keep in mind as these determine the effectiveness of the medications.”

She likewise cautions diabetic patients on the intake of new medications. “If you’re considering switching to a different brand of medicine, seek the opinion of your doctor or pharmacist first. In the same way, if you need to take additional medication for another condition, consult an expert as to how this may affect your blood sugar level. If necessary, he/she may have to recommend an alternative given your specific condition and existing needs.”

It may seem like a lot to take in and adjust to, but Dr. Sison assures individuals that a seamless integration of a diabetes management plan and one’s day-to-day requirements and lifestyle needs is indeed possible. “Successfully implementing major life changes happens through a combination of discipline, determination, and optimism; everything else simply follows. Many diabetic individuals who are now happily enjoying life despite their condition are proof of this.”