Living With Diabetes: GP Tips for Daily Management

Key Takeaways

• Routine supports stability
• Nutrition plays a vital role
• Exercise improves insulin response
• Medication adherence is critical
• Regular GP check-ups matter

A Measured Approach to Daily Living

Diabetes condition isn’t just a condition; it’s a lifestyle shift. Every choice, from morning meals to evening routines, impacts your long-term health. The good news? A well-informed approach can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

At Harbour Town Doctors, our services are designed to make this shift easier. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing for years, small, consistent steps, supported by the right care, can make a lasting impact.

1. Stick to a Routine: Consistency is Key

GPs often emphasise the importance of establishing a daily routine. Blood sugar levels are sensitive to changes in diet, exercise, and medication, so keeping these aspects of life regular can help maintain stable glucose levels.

• Eat meals at the same time each day.
• Take medications or insulin as prescribed, at the same time daily.
• Test blood sugar regularly and record the results.

Having a routine helps your GP monitor your condition more effectively and make more accurate adjustments to your treatment plan.

2. Monitor Blood Glucose Levels Properly

Frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels is crucial for preventing both short-term and long-term complications. GPs recommend tracking your levels consistently and understanding the patterns that emerge.

Tips include:

• Use a trusted glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track your blood sugar accurately.
• Track results before and after meals, and before bed.
• Be aware of your target range (often 4–7 mmol/L before meals and under 10 mmol/L after eating for many people with Type 2 diabetes).

Your GP can help you interpret this data and use it to tailor your treatment strategy.

3. Maintain a Balanced, Diabetes-Friendly Diet

Diet plays a central role in diabetes management. According to GPs, a well-balanced meal plan can help control blood sugar, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Key dietary guidelines include:

• Limit refined sugars and simple carbohydrates (e.g., white bread, sugary snacks).
• Include more whole grains, legumes, and fibre-rich foods to slow sugar absorption.
• Choose lean proteins like fish, chicken, tofu, and legumes.
• Incorporate healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil.
• Control portion sizes and aim for consistent carbohydrate intake.

Your GP may refer you to a dietitian who can create a customised meal plan suited to your lifestyle and health goals.

4. Get Regular Physical Activity

Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes overall well-being. GPs typically recommend aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.

Daily movement tips:

• Take a 10–15 minute walk after meals to aid glucose control.
• Include resistance training (like bodyweight exercises or light weights) twice a week.
• Avoid sitting for long periods, get up and stretch or move every hour.

Be sure to speak with your GP before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have complications such as neuropathy or cardiovascular issues.

5. Take Medications as Prescribed

Whether you’re managing diabetes with oral medication, insulin injections, or both, following your GP’s prescription precisely is essential. Missing doses or improper timing can cause blood sugar fluctuations, increasing the risk of complications.

GPs recommend:

• Use your phone to schedule alerts that remind you when it’s time to take your medication.
• Keep medications in a visible, consistent place.
• Understand the side effects and how to respond if you miss a dose.

If you’re experiencing difficulty with side effects or managing injections, talk to your GP about possible alternatives or adjustments.

6. Manage Stress and Mental Health

Managing a chronic condition such as diabetes can take an emotional toll. Stress can directly affect blood sugar levels by triggering the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can raise glucose.

GPs suggest the following coping strategies:

• Practice deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness daily.
• Keep a journal to track emotional triggers and their impact on your health.
• Maintain regular contact with friends and family to help support your emotional well-being.
• Consider professional counselling if diabetes is affecting your mental well-being.

Your GP may refer you to a mental health professional or a diabetes educator who specialises in emotional coping strategies.

7. Foot Care and Skin Checks

Individuals with diabetes face a higher risk of foot issues caused by reduced circulation and nerve impairment. GPs advise daily foot inspections and maintaining good hygiene to prevent infections.

Foot care tips include:

• Check for cuts, blisters, or signs of infection daily.
• Keep feet clean and moisturised (but avoid between toes).
• Wear well-fitted, comfortable shoes with socks.
• See a podiatrist for regular foot checks.

GPs also encourage patients to keep an eye on their skin for signs of rashes, dryness, or infections, particularly in warm or moist areas.

8. Stay on Top of Health Screenings and GP Check-ups

Regular check-ins with your general practice clinic is critical for long-term diabetes management. These appointments help monitor for complications, adjust medications, and review your overall health status.

Essential check-up routines:

• Hemoglobin A1c testing every 3–6 months to assess long-term glucose control.
• Blood pressure and cholesterol checks to prevent cardiovascular issues.
• Eye exams to screen for diabetic retinopathy.
• Kidney function tests to catch early signs of nephropathy.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear; proactive screenings can catch problems early, when they’re easiest to manage.

9. Understand and Prevent Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia

Understanding how to prevent and respond to blood sugar extremes is crucial. Your GP will provide education on recognising symptoms and appropriate actions.

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, or irritability. Treat with 15g of fast-acting carbs (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice).
• Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar): Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar) symptoms include fatigue, increased thirst, and frequent urination. Check your levels and follow your GP’s advice, and take appropriate steps to treat high blood glucose levels

Keep a log of incidents and share it with your GP to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Conclusion

Managing diabetes isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistency, awareness, and having the right support behind you. At Harbour Town Doctors, our team is committed to helping you navigate daily decisions with clarity and confidence. If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, get in touch with us today. We’re here to help you create a plan that works, every day, in real life.

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