Golden Years Health
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar, also known as glucose. Diabetes can be a challenging condition to navigate. But when you’re an older adult, it can present many issues. To help, there's Jardiance, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by helping the kidneys remove glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.
Drinks to Avoid for Diabetes
Some of these drinks include:
Sugary Beverages
Sodas, sweetened teas and energy drinks are high in added sugars, leading to rapid increases in blood sugar levels.
Fruit Juices
Fruit juices often contain high levels of sugars which can significantly impact blood sugar levels.
Alcohol
Alcohol can interfere with blood sugar regulation. Sweet wines, cocktails and beers with high carbohydrate content are particularly problematic.
Caffeinated Drinks
Some studies suggest that caffeine can affect blood sugar levels.
Paying attention to diet and lifestyle choices is key to managing your symptoms. Certain drinks can cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels and should be avoided or consumed in moderation.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin (a hormone that regulates blood sugar) or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes
This is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity.
According to the CDC, 29.2% of adults in the United States who are 65 and older have diabetes, which is about 16.5 million people.
Warning Signs of Diabetes
Understanding warning signs and symptoms that may be an indication of diabetes is key to addressing it and acting fast. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Frequent urination.
- Increased thirst.
- Increased hunger.
- Extreme fatigue and exhaustion.
- Blurry vision.
- Cuts/bruises that are slow to heal.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Tingling, pain or numbness in the hands/feet.
Testing for Diabetes
If you suspect you may have diabetes, your doctor will likely test for it. Getting an early diagnosis can help you manage your symptoms quickly and more efficiently. Some testing options include:
Fasting Plasma Glucose Test
This test measures your blood glucose at a single point in time. Your doctor will give you the test in the morning after you’ve had nothing to eat or drink. Otherwise, they will ask you to fast for about eight hours before giving you the test.
A1C Test
The A1C test shows your average blood glucose level over the past three months. Doctors will study the results to assess whether or not your blood glucose level indicates the presence of diabetes.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test
There are two steps to this test. First, your blood glucose level is tested after you have fasted overnight. Then you drink a sugary drink and have your blood glucose level tested again two hours later. A high glucose level suggests that you might have diabetes.
The Importance of a Glucose Monitor
Experts strongly suggest that anyone with diabetes–but particularly older adults–use a glucose monitor. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is vital for managing diabetes effectively. In addition, it can give people with diabetes a sense of empowerment and control over their condition. A glucose monitor allows individuals to:
Track Blood Sugar Levels
Frequent monitoring helps individuals understand how their diet, exercise and medications affect their blood sugar levels. When you have a better understanding of how certain factors affect the body, you become more able to make changes and stay in control of your health.
Adjust Medications
Monitoring allows for timely adjustments to medication dosages, helping to prevent both high and low blood sugar levels.
Prevent Complications
Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range reduces the risk of complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, kidney disease and vision problems.
Elderly Diabetes Management
Managing diabetes as an older adult comes with unique challenges, but with the right knowledge and tools, it is entirely possible to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Understanding the importance of diet, recognizing the warning signs, and regularly monitoring blood sugar levels are critical components of effective diabetes management.
By making informed choices and working closely with healthcare providers, seniors can navigate diabetes with confidence and maintain their quality of life. Remember, taking proactive steps today can significantly impact your health and well-being for the future. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and take charge of your diabetes management journey.