The New Year is right around the corner. This is a time for reflection and planning. Have you thought about what you would like to change in the coming year? Many people resolve to get more exercise, eat healthy, lose weight, spend more time with family and friends, etc. at the beginning of a new year. Diabetics usually are a little more specific with their resolutions. Here are some ways to start the year in optimal health.

Check in With Your Doctor

• If you aren’t already, make sure to see your doctor two to four times this year
• Review and continue to follow your testing schedule, tweaking if necessary
• Make note of your most recent A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol numbers
• Start or review your meal plan with your diabetes educator, tweaking if necessary
• Don’t forget to get a renal function and microalbumin test

Get Moving!

•  Ramp up physical activity.  Remember something is better than nothing at all.
• Take your medications exactly as they are prescribed

Care for Your Whole Body

• Get an annual eye exam
• Go to the dentist twice per year
• Examine your feet for cuts and/or sores daily
• Brush and floss daily
• Get your flu shot

Don’t Bottle Up Stress! Deal With It Right Away Using One of These Techniques

• Deep breathing
• Learning to say no
• Asking for help when you need it
• Making time for you
• Getting enough sleep (7-8 hours is ideal)
• Exercising (with other people if that motivates you)
• Seeing a counselor or social worker if none of the above approaches are effective

Although this is a long and possibly daunting list, it is realistic and doable.  With the help of your doctor, you can get 2018 started off on the right foot.  Share your resolutions with someone to hold yourself accountable.