7 Steps for Better Living With Diabetes Make an Appointment Ask a Question Search Conditions This information has been reviewed and approved by Jenna Milliron, NP-C, Michelle O. MacDonald, RD, MS, Dthia Kalkwarf, RN, BSN, CDE, BC-ADM (November 2021) Want to use this on your website? Fill out the content usage request form and then copy this code: Summary: 7 Steps For Better Living With Diabetes 1. Eat Healthy Eat lots of vegetables and fruit Reduce or eliminate sugary foods and drinks Watch or reduce carbs Watch portion sizes Eat regular meals Lose 10-20 pounds if you are overweight 2. Be Active Exercise 5 days a week Be active 30 minutes a day Lose 10-20 pounds if you are overweight 3. Monitor Check your blood sugar levels; know your A1C Check your blood pressure, cholesterol, eyes, feet and teeth 4. Take Medication Know your pills and insulins, understand how they work and take the right doses at the right times 5. Problem Solve Recognize your high and low blood sugars, understand what caused them and learn to treat and prevent them 6. Reduce Risk Quit smoking Do regular health exams (eye, foot & dental) See your doctor regularly for check-ups and tests 7. Cope Well Get support from your family, friends and diabetes care team Set realistic goals and work toward them More Information on Diabetes Diabetes Health Info Diabetes Self-Management Patient Education Program Managing Your Medications Nutrition Healthy Recipes Exercise Division of Specialty Services Walk With a Doc Make an Appointment Find a Doctor You may use this infographic or our 7 Steps for Better Living with Diabetes with permission by completing our content usage request form.