Whether you’ve recently received a diagnosis or have managed type 2 diabetes for years, establishing and maintaining a strong relationship with your healthcare provider—and keeping regular appointments—is crucial.
Jennifer Okemah, RDN, CDCES, owner and clinical director of Saluté Nutrition (a virtual diabetes coaching company based in Kirkland, Washington), emphasizes that many factors impact type 2 diabetes. “Even small changes—like losing five pounds or adding a daily walk to your routine—can significantly improve blood sugar control and medication effectiveness,” she explains.
It’s especially important to consult with your doctor if you’ve recently started new medications, experienced fluctuations in your A1C levels (higher than target), have lower-than-expected readings, or are experiencing new symptoms. These conversations allow for adjustments to your diabetes management plan as needed. The more thorough and prepared you are during these visits, the better equipped your healthcare team can be to support you effectively.
1. How Often Should You Check Your Blood Sugar?
Your doctor will help determine how frequently blood sugar monitoring is best for you based on factors such as medications taken (especially insulin), lifestyle habits, and personal goals related to glucose control.
- Aiming for Optimal Results: If your A1C exceeds target levels, more frequent checks may be necessary while working with your doctor to refine treatment strategies.
GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Ozempic or Mounjaro) and SGLT2 inhibitors (such as Jardiance or Farxiga) are among the newer diabetes medications. Ask about their potential benefits in managing weight, supporting heart health, improving kidney function, and lowering A1C levels.
However, these drugs aren’t suitable for everyone—consult your doctor regarding specific contraindications based on personal medical history (e.g., pancreatic issues or pregnancy).
5. How Can You Tell If Your Medication Is Effective?
Your healthcare provider will assess several factors during visits to evaluate current treatments:
- A1C Results: This long-term measure indicates average blood sugar levels over the past few months.
6. Are You Meeting Your Blood Sugar Targets?
Your ideal target range depends on age, overall health, other medical conditions (like heart disease), and personal circumstances such as pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Aiming for Success: Okemah recommends setting targets with your doctor that feel realistic yet challenging enough to drive results. These guidelines typically include values before meals and one to two hours post-meal, but should be personalized.
GLP-1 medications can help lower blood sugar levels effectively without necessarily requiring additional insulin or other drugs.
If you’re taking GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic or Mounjaro (or similar brands), your doctor might advise incorporating a small amount of protein into each main meal to enhance their effectiveness. This approach helps by slowing down glucose absorption, providing longer-lasting effects compared to relying solely on insulin.8. How Often Should You Monitor Your Ketones?
Ketone testing is particularly important during sick days or when blood sugar levels exceed 250 mg/dL and you haven’t eaten recently. If ketones are detected, especially in people with type 1 diabetes who are on insulin, it could indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
9. Should You Use a Continuous Glucose Monitor?
A CGM provides round-the-clock glucose readings and trend information, which can help prevent dangerous highs or lows.
If your healthcare provider recommends you’re on insulin or GLP-1 medications that could increase ketone risk (like certain SGLT2 inhibitors), ask about safe sick-day protocols. These include guidelines for managing infections properly without over-treating glucose levels and knowing when to test for ketones.
Consider using a glucagon kit, especially if you’re taking rapid-acting insulin or GLP-1 medications that increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
The Bottom Line
- Taking Control: Work closely with your doctor to create an individualized management plan covering all aspects: target ranges, medication choices, dietary guidance, exercise recommendations, and sick day protocols.
- Prepare Ahead: Before visiting your doctor, compile detailed questions about specific aspects of your diabetes management.
Regularly monitor blood pressure if you are on certain medications (like thiazolidinediones) that could increase the risk of hypoglycemia or weight gain. Ask your doctor how to best communicate this information during appointments so it can be addressed effectively.
The Takeaway
Your healthcare provider will help determine the most appropriate frequency for blood sugar checks based on several factors including medications taken (especially insulin), personal health goals, and overall lifestyle considerations. This tailored approach ensures you’re checking effectively rather than excessively or insufficiently.
For personalized advice regarding exercise integration into your diabetes plan—whether starting out or looking to optimize current routines—your doctor can help identify the safest types of physical activity for you.
If you’re already active, ask about tailoring food intake and medication timing around workouts. If just beginning an exercise routine, focus on activities that align with your goals while minimizing risk.Ketone testing is particularly important during sick days or when blood sugar levels exceed 250 mg/dL without eating recently.
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