Living With Type 2 Diabetes: Your Daily Guide

Check your blood sugar

• Check as your care team tells you. Write it down.
• Usual goal before meals: 80 to 130 mg/dL.
• Usual goal 1 to 2 hours after a meal: under 180 mg/dL.
• A1C (3-month average) goal: under 7%, or ____________.

Eat well

• Fill half your plate with vegetables, one quarter with lean protein, and one quarter with whole grains or starches.
• Eat about the same amount of carbs at each meal.
• Drink water. Skip regular soda, juice, and sweet tea.

Move every day

• Aim for 150 minutes a week, such as a 30-minute walk 5 days a week.
• Do not go more than 2 days in a row without activity.

Take metformin with food

• Take it with meals to ease upset stomach and loose stools.
• Before a scan with contrast dye, ask if you should stop it and when to restart.

Check your feet every day

• Look at the tops, bottoms, and between your toes. Use a mirror.
• Test bath water with your elbow. Dry well between your toes.
• Cut nails straight across. Wear shoes that fit, with socks.
• Never walk barefoot, even at home.

Keep yearly checkups

• Get an eye exam, kidney tests, and a foot exam every year.