Diabetes Health: Living in the Moment

It’s easy to let denial and fear navigate your life. But, when you live in the moment, you focus on what you can control. Here's what living in the moment can do for your health. 

One of the significant drivers for me into diabetes education was the ability to address not only blood sugars but also mind, body, and spirit. I saw a diabetes diagnosis as an opportunity to cultivate healthcare practices to achieve optimal health. 

I have had many conversations with people newly diagnosed with diabetes. Many were often in disarray because they felt they were doing everything they could to manage their health to prevent diabetes. For some individuals, fear of the unknown and the possibility of suffering from diabetes complications such as amputations, blindness, and kidney failure drove their healthcare practices. Instead of dedicated action, they were often distracted by denial, anxiety, and guilt. 

As a result, many people diagnosed with diabetes (PWD) started their diabetes journey with severe restrictions instead of sustainable health practices. Blood sugars and other lab values, including weight management, remained decent for a short time until some realized that they were living by unrealistic expectations. Unfortunately, I am still seeing some of the same practices today.

It’s easy to let denial and fear navigate your life. But, when you live in the moment, you focus on what you can control (instead of what you cannot) and on daily practices that will help you achieve the health you deserve.

When you live in the moment

• You don’t wait for the doctor to confirm your health care practices with lab tests, such as your Hemoglobin A1C. Instead, you are diligent about checking your blood sugars routinely to avoid high results.
• You routinely incorporate nutrients that support your body (minerals, vitamins, fiber, omega-3, and antioxidant-rich foods).
• You strive for a balance between rest and work because you know that unmanaged stress increases blood sugars and puts you at risk for diabetes complications.
• You take your medications as prescribed and maintain regular appointments.
• You avoid delaying medical care or treatment. Instead, you realize that your body sends you the information as symptoms when your body needs attention. As a result, you have a better chance of recovery from health conditions and illnesses when you seek care early.
• You make time for physical activity to avoid weight spikes.
• You become a student of your health and look for accurate and reliable resources.
• You advocate for yourself, and if something doesn’t feel right or you are not getting the care you deserve, you speak up and change providers if needed.
• You manage your cravings because you know you are in control.
• You aim to think positively about your health instead of having a fatalistic approach. As a result, you know you can make the right decisions to support your healthcare goals.

As you move through the holiday season, remember that you don’t have to set your New Year goals on January 1st. Instead, you can live the life you want now. By living in the moment, you are more conscious of your behaviors; therefore, you know that you can prevent or deter yourself from unhealthy healthcare practices. The more you practice something, the more it becomes a habit. The stronger your nerve connections are in the brain and throughout your body, the more likely you will continue the pattern or revert to it when you feel you are not making progress.

As always, make this life great because you still can!