In Louisiana, diabetes is a serious health concern, with approximately 486,600 adults — 13.8% of the population — living with the condition, according to the American Diabetes Association. As numbers rise, early prevention and effective management become increasingly important.
Alexis G. Albin, MD, internal medicine and pediatrics physician at St. Francis Health, offers insights on preventing diabetes and managing it if diagnosed.
Prevention Starts with Lifestyle Choices
Dr. Albin explains that while genetics plays a role, lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. A balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins and vegetables helps regulate blood sugar.
Regular physical activity is also key. Even just 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like walking, biking or swimming, most days can lower your risk by improving insulin sensitivity and maintaining a healthy weight.
Monitoring Risk Factors
Along with diet and exercise, Dr. Albin advises her patients to keep an eye on key risk factors.
For those with a family history of diabetes, who are overweight or who have high blood pressure, it’s essential to get regular screenings. A simple blood test to check fasting glucose or A1C levels can detect early signs of prediabetes. Identifying these signs early allows for lifestyle changes that can delay or prevent the onset of diabetes.
Dr. Albin also stresses the importance of sleep and stress management. Chronic stress and poor sleep habits can both affect how the body processes sugar. Learning stress-reduction techniques and ensuring adequate sleep can support overall health and reduce the likelihood of developing diabetes.
Treatment Options for Managing Diabetes
For those already diagnosed with diabetes, managing the condition is critical to preventing complications. Dr. Albin offers reassurance that diabetes can be effectively controlled with the right combination of treatments. The goal is to maintain healthy blood sugar levels to avoid complications like nerve damage, kidney disease and heart issues.
In terms of treatment, Dr. Albin highlights several approaches, starting with lifestyle modifications. For many patients, the first line of treatment is adjusting their diet and increasing physical activity. Medication such as metformin or insulin therapy may be required for some individuals, depending on the type and severity of their diabetes.
The Role of Regular Checkups
Managing diabetes is a lifelong commitment, and routine medical care is an essential part of that process. During these checkups, a provider can monitor blood sugar control, adjust medications and screen for any complications. The partnership between a patient and their provider can keep diabetes in check and maintain a high quality of life.
While diabetes can be a serious condition, Dr. Albin reminds patients that with proper prevention strategies and effective treatment, living a healthy life with diabetes is entirely possible.
