Managing type 2 diabetes involves taking care of yourself, which includes making changes to your diet and lifestyle, developing an exercise plan, taking your medications, and monitoring your blood sugar levels throughout the day. Although managing diabetes can be overwhelming at first, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) can help you succeed. These professionals specialize in educating, supporting, and promoting self-management of diabetes. They work with individuals to create personalized goals that can improve both care and health outcomes. Here are some key points they want people to know about managing type 2 diabetes: 1. **Set Realistic Goals**: Goals should be challenging but achievable. For example, instead of a vague goal like “exercise more,” set a specific goal like “bike for 30 minutes 4 days a week.” 2. **Weight Management**: Losing 5-10% of your total body weight can make blood sugar levels more manageable and potentially reduce the need for diabetes medication. 3. **Blood Sugar Levels**: Aim to keep blood sugar levels between 80-130 mg/dL before meals and under 180 mg/dL one to two hours after starting a meal. Staying within the target range at least 70% of the time can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications. 4. **Sleep**: Getting at least 7 hours of good sleep can help regulate blood sugar levels. Establishing healthy sleep habits can improve your ability to fall and stay asleep. 5. **Medication**: As diabetes progresses, additional medications may be needed. Work with your healthcare team to adjust your treatment plan as necessary. 6. **Carbohydrate Management**: Reducing carbohydrate intake can help maintain target blood sugar levels. Combine carbs with proteins to prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar. 7. **Exercise**: Physical activity is important, but be aware that certain exercises can temporarily raise blood sugar levels. Over time, exercise can improve insulin sensitivity. Remember, each person's diabetes management plan is unique. Consider working with a certified diabetes educator to develop a personalized approach. Original article in English. Spanish translation by HolaDoctor. Spanish edition on June 13, 2022. Original version written on March 23, 2021. Last medical review on March 23, 2021.