Diabetes is the condition characterized by elevated levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycemia) resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. Management of Diabetes means controlling blood glucose level. Controlling of blood glucose level can be done by monitoring blood glucose level at home. This is called self-monitoring of blood glucose level. Self monitoring of blood glucose level is an important tool to help in reducing risk of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose level). This helps to prevent complications like Nephropathy (kidney disease), Neuropathy (brain nerves damage), Retinopathy (eye disease), foot ulcer, etc. Moreover, self monitoring of blood glucose is like learning yourself and your diabetes, which is an essential tool in diabetes management. 

Managing Diabetes means making choices – some easy, some hard. When you need to make a decision, think of the word STAR. 

(S) STOP: Stop before you make a decision. What kind of snack is best for you and your health? Is it better to go for a walk or to watch TV? When is the perfect time to take your last meal? 

(T) THINK: Think about your choices before you act. Think: a piece of fruit will affect your blood sugar level differently than a pack of fruit juice. Think: is skipping breakfast good or bad for you?

(A) ACT: Act on better choice for your health. Always remember, change is slow. Small steps add up to big results.

(R) REFLECT: Reflect on your progress. Review your progress. Give yourself credit when you make a choice. 

Always make good decision with good planning. Plan about the these things: What to eat? How much to eat? When to eat? What kind of exercise to do? When to take your medication?

STAR is finding out and trusting your goals.

Also Read: Nutribeads for Making Nutrition Better!