The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over 30 million Americans are currently living with diabetes. This condition, which is categorized by the body’s inability to produce and manage insulin levels, requires a lifelong commitment to monitoring overall health with the help of an experienced family medical clinic and making some lifestyle changes. If a loved one was recently diagnosed with diabetes, here are a few ways you can support them moving forward. 

4 Ways to Support Friends or Family Members with Diabetes

1. Encourage a Healthy Diet

While a doctor will likely prescribe diabetes medication or an insulin therapy system to keep blood sugar at appropriate levels, maintaining a balanced diet low in processed sugar and white flours and rich in fresh vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats is highly recommended. In addition to encouraging healthy meal choices, introduce them to dietitian services so they better understand weight management. 

2. Create a Support System

After learning a loved one has diabetes, it’s common for individuals to feel isolated and even depressed as they must alter their behavior to maintain wellness. Become a pillar of support and help your loved one find support groups or others within their community that are also living with diabetes so they are inspired to stay healthy and positive. 

3. Go to the Family Medical Clinic Together

Visiting a primary care doctor for routine checkups and to discuss what they need to do moving forward in terms of diet, exercise, and insulin monitoring can be overwhelming. To help during this process, offer to visit the family medical clinic with your loved one. Having a friend or family member in the room to absorb information and offer support can make the visit less stressful and treatment more effective. 

4. Volunteer as a Workout Companion

To manage Type 2 diabetes, doctors recommend adhering to an exercise routine that includes at least 30 minutes of vigorous activity per day to lose weight and lower glucose levels. If your loved one is having a hard time getting up and moving, volunteer as a workout buddy. Having a companion for a run or when venturing out to a group exercise class can provide much-needed motivation. 

Bland County Medical Clinic, in Bastian, VA, is a dedicated and efficient family medical clinic that always puts a patient’s well-being first. With over 38 years of experience, you can depend on this team of primary care physicians, nurses, and support staff to provide unparalleled care in a judgment-free environment, whether you require weight management, urgent care, or assistance tracking diabetes. To schedule an appointment call (276) 688-4331 or visit their website for more information on their diabetes services.