How to live with Diabetes in Loddon

Many people live well with diabetes, however, if left untreated, or it is not well managed, it can result in serious complications including:

• heart attack, heart disease and stroke
• eye disease and blindness
• nerve damage
• infection, ulcers and gangrene, especially of the feet
• kidney disease
• depression, anxiety and distress.

It takes time, energy and commitment to manage your diabetes to prevent these complications and achieve good health. Important lifestyle measures include:

• quitting smoking
• exercising for 30 minutes on most days of the week, with a mix of cardio and resistance activities
• limiting alcohol consumption to no more than two standard drinks per day
• taking care of your mental health and wellbeing
• knowing your numbers, i.e. blood glucose (blood sugar) levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• eating to the Australian Dietary Guidelines – focusing on healthy carbohydrates (eg. vegetables and low-fat dairy products), fibre-rich foods (eg. whole grains and legumes) and good fats (eg. avocado and nuts); avoiding bad fats (eg. high-fat dairy products, animal proteins and processed snacks); and limiting sodium and cholesterol.

Please contact your local provider for further information about services in your area:

Diabetic sharps containers - collection and disposal

For more information about Diabetes please see the following websites:

Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Victoria

Better Health Channel