As you reach your golden years, ongoing health care services are essential to your overall quality of life. Your family doctor may ask about your diet and exercise routine to better understand whether you're at risk for diabetes, a chronic condition that impacts how the body processes blood sugar or glucose. Here's a brief guide to diabetes in seniors, so you can stay healthy at every age. 

Why Are Seniors at Risk for Diabetes?

Senior citizens have consumed sugar for decades. With additional exposure, the risk of abnormally high blood glucose levels increases significantly because your body can build up resistance to insulin. As such, the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes can grow exponentially with age. In addition, pancreatic function can naturally decrease as you age, compounding your risk of this health condition. 

What Signs Indicate You May Have This Disease?

Seniors should know the early warning signs and symptoms of diabetes. This can include increased thirst and frequent urination. Other symptoms may include losing weight without making changes to your diet or routine; blurry vision; sores that won't heal; increased frequency of gum, skin, or vaginal infections; weakness; and irritability. Many patients that are prediabetic tell their doctors they feel tired throughout the day despite their sleep routines. 

What Healthy Diet Should Seniors With Diabetes Embrace?

When you notice the symptoms outlined above, it's best to visit your health care provider right away to test for diabetes. If tests confirm you're diabetic or prediabetic, embracing a healthy diet is essential to managing your glucose levels. Doctors recommend a diet that's rich in fresh vegetables, such as broccoli and leafy greens and high-fiber fresh fruits, like apples. Lean proteins like grilled chicken, salmon, and turkey breast are welcome, along with whole grains like quinoa and barley as well as nuts and avocado in moderation to ensure plenty of healthy fats. 

If you're looking for top-notch health care in your golden years, Dumas Family Practice is the doctor for you. Based in the heart of Dumas, TX, residents across the northern panhandle of Texas can depend on this family practice for ongoing care at any age. To schedule an appointment, call today at (806) 935-9005. For more information on their specialties, including managing diabetes, visit their website.