More than 37 million Americans live with diabetes, and millions more have prediabetes without knowing it. Whether you were recently diagnosed or have been managing the condition for years, the daily decisions you make have a profound impact on your long-term health.

At Manatee Primary Care, diabetes management is one of our core areas of focus. Here is what we recommend to our patients.

The A1C test measures your average blood sugar over the past two to three months. It is expressed as a percentage:

• Below 5.7%, Normal
• 5.7–6.4%, Prediabetes
• 6.5% or higher, Diabetes

For most adults with diabetes, the target A1C is below 7%. Your doctor may set a different goal based on your age, other health conditions, and risk of low blood sugar.

Checking your blood sugar at home gives you real-time feedback on how food, activity, stress, and medication affect your levels. Your care team will recommend how often to check and what your target ranges should be.

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are small wearable sensors that track blood sugar around the clock. Many patients find them life-changing, they eliminate finger sticks and reveal patterns that single readings miss.

No single "diabetes diet" works for everyone, but these principles are well-supported by evidence:

Focus on fiber. Non-starchy vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and berries slow glucose absorption and improve A1C. Aim for at least 25–30 grams of fiber per day.

Limit refined carbohydrates. White bread, white rice, sugary drinks, and processed snacks cause rapid blood sugar spikes. Swap them for whole-grain alternatives and water.

Eat consistent meals. Skipping meals leads to blood sugar swings. Three balanced meals at regular times, with protein, healthy fat, and fiber at each, helps keep levels stable.

Watch portion sizes. Even healthy foods raise blood sugar in large amounts. The plate method is simple: fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, one quarter with lean protein, and one quarter with whole grains or starchy vegetables.

Limit alcohol. Alcohol can cause dangerous low blood sugar, especially if you take insulin or certain oral medications. If you drink, do so with food and in moderation.

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for managing blood sugar. Muscle contractions use glucose for energy, which lowers blood sugar without medication.

• Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (brisk walking, swimming, cycling)
• Add strength training two days per week, muscle mass improves insulin sensitivity
• Break up long periods of sitting with short walks every 30–60 minutes

Always check your blood sugar before and after exercise, especially if you take insulin.

Oral medications and insulin work best when taken consistently. Missing doses leads to blood sugar spikes that accumulate over time and damage blood vessels and nerves.

If you are experiencing side effects or struggling with your medication routine, talk to your doctor. There are many options available, the right regimen should fit your life.

Uncontrolled diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. Regular monitoring and preventive care can catch problems early:

• Annual eye exam, Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults
• Annual foot exam, Nerve damage and poor circulation increase infection risk
• Kidney function tests, Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure
• Blood pressure and cholesterol control, Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in people with diabetes

Managing diabetes is a team effort. At Manatee Primary Care, we partner with you to set realistic goals, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and provide the education and support to help you thrive. Many diabetes follow-up visits can also be done as virtual primary care visits from the comfort of your home.

Call us at (941) 867-9362 or request an appointment to schedule your diabetes management visit.