Author: Chantelle van der MerweRegistered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . All about simplifying and individualizing nutritional therapy for diabetes management Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Sadly, the dangers of uncontrolled diabetes become notable when it is too late, and severe damage has been done to almost every body system. The good news is that managing diabetes is possible with the right information, tools, and support. One of the most critical aspects of diabetes management is monitoring blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring allows you to see how well you are managing your blood sugar levels and make adjustments to your diet, exercise routine, and medication as needed. Knowing your blood sugar targets is also crucial for effective diabetes management. As we discussed in a previous post, for individuals with type 2 diabetes, the general recommended fasting/pre-prandial blood glucose target is 4.0 to 7.0 mmol/L, and the post-meal/post-prandial blood glucose target is 5.0 to 10 mmol/L. In addition to monitoring blood sugar levels and knowing your targets, it is also essential to understand what foods contain carbohydrates and how much you can eat. Carbohydrates have the most significant impact on blood sugar levels, so it is crucial to manage your carbohydrate intake to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Knowing how much is an appropriate portion for carbohydrates is also vital. Your registered dietitian can provide guidance on these matters and help you develop a meal plan that is tailored to your individual needs and preferences. It is essential to work with your healthcare team to manage your diabetes effectively. If your blood sugar levels are not optimal, do not wait for your next scheduled appointment. Contact your healthcare team as soon as possible to discuss adjustments to your treatment plan. Uncontrolled hyperglycemia can cause damage to many of the body's organs, leading to disabling and life-threatening health complications such as cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye disease. However, appropriate management of diabetes can delay or prevent these serious complications altogether. Managing diabetes can be challenging, but it is essential to take responsibility for your health and work with your healthcare team to achieve optimal blood sugar control. Regular monitoring, understanding your targets and carbohydrate intake, and working with your healthcare team can help you manage your diabetes effectively and reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related complications. 
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Chantelle vd Merwe RD (SA)
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