Diabetes changes how your body uses energy. If your blood sugar stays high, it can hurt your eyes, heart, kidneys and other parts of your body.

The good news is that simple daily habits can help you stay well. When you manage diabetes well, you can avoid long-term problems.

Eye Exams

Diabetes can raise your risk of eye problems such as:

• Retinopathy.
• Glaucoma.
• Cataracts.

These problems often have no early signs, so a yearly dilated eye exam is important. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that most vision loss from diabetes can be prevented with frequent and ongoing care. Regular eye exams help doctors spot small changes before they turn into big issues.

A1C

Your A1C test shows your average blood sugar level over the last three months. The CDC says you should get this test every three to six months, based on how well your blood sugar is controlled.

Keeping your A1C in a safe range lowers your risk of:

• Kidney disease.
• Vision loss.
• Heart problems.

Many people with diabetes need two or more A1C tests each year to stay on track.

Medication Adherence

Taking your medicine as your doctor tells you is one of the best ways to stay healthy. Diabetes care now includes new medicine that can also help your heart and kidneys.

Even if you feel fine, skipping doses can raise your blood sugar and lead to long-term problems. If you have side effects or trouble remembering your medicine, talk with your doctor. There are simple tools that can help you stay on track.

Regular Routine Checkups

Routine checkups give you and your care team a clear view of your health. During these visits, your providers check these and other key indicators:

• Blood pressure
• Weight
• Feet

You should see your doctor every three to six months, based on your treatment plan. These visits help identify new symptoms early and keep your care plan up to date.

Nutrition

Healthy eating helps keep your blood sugar in your target range. Your body turns the food you eat into glucose. Balanced meals help prevent spikes that can cause problems.

Try building your meals with:

• Vegetables.
• Lean proteins.
• Whole grains.
• Healthy fats.

Small changes, such as choosing water over sugary drinks, can help.

Managing diabetes can be challenging at times. With the right support, staying healthy is absolutely possible. Focus on a few key habits and work with your care team. Celebrate each small step forward. You can protect your health one choice at a time.

The CDC is an independent organization that provides health information you may find helpful.