Managing diabetes can seem to be overwhelming. Checking your blood sugars daily, making healthy food choices, getting in enough physical activity, and taking medications can be both confusing and challenging. It is often difficult to know where to turn for help and ongoing support. A Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) is a registered nurse, registered dietitian, pharmacist, or other health professional with advanced knowledge and skills in diabetes management. A CDCES is a member of your diabetes care team and is available to help you make positive choices with your diabetes management.
So how can diabetes education with a CDCES benefit you? Perhaps you have been struggling to understand why your fasting numbers are elevated or why your blood sugar is always high after a certain meal. A CDCES can help you understand your blood sugar numbers and help you identify trends and opportunities for improvement. They have a deep understanding of all the different diabetes medications and can help you understand how they work. For many people living with diabetes, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is challenging. A CDCES can create an individualized meal plan based on your needs and preferences and help you understand the foods that affect your blood sugar. If you are looking for an exercise plan to get more active, a CDCES can help you decide on an impactful routine. If you are curious about new technology like insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, or blood sugar meters, a CDCES is a great technological resource. And if you are feeling emotional or stressed with managing your diabetes, a CDCES is there to help you deal with these emotions and help you develop good coping strategies.
Getting connected with a CDCES in your area is simple. It is especially important when you are first diagnosed with diabetes, and you should try and meet with a CDCES at least once a year or when you are struggling to meet your care goals, when new complicating factors arise, and during changes in your life and care. Diabetes education with a CDCES is covered by most insurance plans and a referral from your provider is all that is needed. Group classes or individual sessions are available depending on your insurance plan and/or personal preference. Diabetes self-management education and support can help lower your blood sugar and can help you lower your risk of complications. Enlist the help of a CDCES today.
How a Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Can Help You (diabeteseducator.org)
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