This is my final blog on diabetes, and I of course want to end on a happy note! I hope you have learned a lot from my past blogs. I have enjoyed posting these columns because, instead of telling a few clients each day about how to manage their diabetes, I've been able to tell a whole lot of people. So here it is — the top 10 best things about having diabetes:
10. Good with numbers. Even if you don't think of yourself as a mathematical whiz, you likely do more math than most people. Just think of the numbers you keep track of each day: daily glucose levels, food labels, carb counts, lab results, and more.
9. Creative. Since managing diabetes can consume some of your precious time each day, you have probably come up with some creative ways to fit in meals, exercise, glucose testing, medications, and doctor visits.
8. Technologically savvy. Let's admit it: A glucose meter is a really cool gadget. Just by operating this marvel, you're in control of something more technologically complex than your friend's cell phone. And if you download data from your meter, or use an insulin pump, then you really are savvy.
7. Nutritionally in the know. I have heard my clients say they know more about nutrition than they had ever planned to know — and lots more than any of their friends.
6. Supported by a built-in community. Having diabetes makes you automatically connected to the millions of other people with diabetes. Whether or not they are a part of your actual support system, they are part of you.
5. Benefit more from exercise. You get all the same benefits as someone without diabetes, but exercise's effect on your glucose levels can be even bigger for you.
4. Quickly updated about lifestyle changes. The glucose meter tells all, instantly. Any changes you make to your diet, exercise program, or weight will be reflected in those glucose levels.
3. Healthier. Yes, having diabetes can actually improve your health. This disease gives you the motivation to follow a meal plan, do some exercise, and watch your weight — a regimen guaranteed to make you a healthier person overall.
2. Well cared for. Because you have diabetes, you likely visit your doctor regularly, as well as see a team of specialists (cardiologist, podiatrist, dentist, ophthalmologist, dietitian, and the list can go on).
1. Self-aware. Having diabetes actually shapes who you are. It forces you to get in touch with your emotional side and teaches you how to deal with sometimes grueling challenges.
You can live a long and healthy life with — and because of — diabetes. A final quote to end on: The key to longevity is taking care of a chronic disease.
