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One of the best ways to help ensure you exercise regularly is to fi nd something you enjoy, so don't be afraid to try many different types of exercise before you settle on something that works for you. Your options are unlimited — from swimming to running to dancing, there is something for everyone. Always consult your physician before starting or altering an exercise regimen. Changing your diet can be daunting, particularly when combined with other lifestyle changes, but you can make a difference by eliminating certain foods. In limited portions, choose whole grain breads and pastas rather than processed white breads and refi ned pasta. Replacing sandwiches with salads is another option. A simple trick is drinking more water or unsweetened tea throughout your day to replace sodas or other sugary drinks. Follow the recommendations for carbohydrate balance found at choosemyplate.gov. These easy steps may signifi cantly reduce the amount of sugar your body has to process and can help to prevent weight gain, which is often a precursor to Type 2 diabetes. YOUR SELF-MANAGEMENT SECURIT Y SYSTEM If you are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, don't let it frighten or defi ne you — you are still in control. Learning to live with the condition is a process, and one that involves many lifestyle changes. Your doctor will advise you about acquiring a blood glucose meter, which can be used to help monitor your blood glucose levels. Because your body isn't able to use insulin effectively, your doctor will sometimes prescribe medication to stabilize your blood glucose levels. However, many people can manage their levels by exercising and eating properly. Much of the advice that applies to preventing Type 2 diabetes also applies to managing it. Changes to your diet can include lowering your sugar intake, choosing more leafy greens and drinking more water. Not only will these changes benefi t your blood glucose levels, they will also lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, both of which are often higher in individuals with diabetes. Staying active is an essential part of both diabetes prevention and management. By incorporating different types of exercise, including aerobic exercise such as Pilates or biking, strength training and other forms of exercise such as dance or yoga, you can raise your activity levels and lower your blood glucose, helping you to live a healthier, happier life. Weight loss can aid in diabetes prevention. To schedule a free weight loss seminar at CHRISTUS Weight Loss Institute – Westover Hills, visit christussantarosa.org/weightloss. Get in the Diabetes Driver's Seat Have questions about diabetes? Find answers at a diabetes education class. "We supply information in terms people can understand, whether we're discussing how diabetes affects the body, how to read food labels or why exercising and taking medications are important," says Mary Reyes, RN, CDE, at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – Westover Hills. Mary leads a free, two-hour education class twice per month. "It's wonderful when patients say they feel more empowered after taking my class." Learning about how diabetes affects your body is crucial to maintaining control over it. The more you know about the disease, the better you can manage blood sugar levels, avoid complications and live life on your terms. CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System offers comprehensive diabetes care, including education and management services. For more information, visit christussantarosa.org/ diabetesservices. "For people struggling with weight loss, it's never too soon to seek help. Surgery isn't meant to be the easy way out, but it can give people a jump start to improve their quality of life and become healthier, and we're here to help with that." — Richard Peterson, M.D., MPH, FACS, director of the CHRISTUS Weight Loss Institute – Westover Hills and president of the Texas Association for Bariatric Surgery 5 LiveWell | Fall 2015