Nutrition and Diabetes

Have you heard? It’s National Nutrition Month. The food choices you make and your physical activity habits play a big role in your overall health, from your blood pressure to your weight, and even your feet. Diabetes, which is a chronic condition that impacts your friends, family members, and neighbors, is one condition that is greatly influenced by the food on your plate.  Here at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC, we want to educate our patients on some of the impacts of an unhealthy diet. During this month, Dr. David Sullivan and his team hope you will make some changes.

I’ve had diabetes for years, and I’ve always eaten this way.

While we cannot guarantee that your diabetes will suddenly disappear, there is value in keeping your glucose levels low and regulated. When glucose levels are too high, patients risk entering a diabetic coma, having a stroke, or developing a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. Eating differently can reduce the risk of developing these serious complications.

I don’t know where to start.

We recommend starting small or eliminating long-standing habits. You may limit the number of sugary drinks you eat or replace a fried side item with a salad or a piece of fruit. We also recommend finding a nutrition neighbor. This can be someone who lives with you or close by and is willing to journey with you and hold you accountable for making healthy decisions.

What are some foot and ankle conditions to monitor?

Unhealthy eating can lead to additional weight, which adds more stress to your joints. If you already have a foot or ankle condition associated with diabetes, additional weight can make the pain even worse. Foot ulcers, for example, are worsened by additional pressure or friction.

March may be National Nutrition Month, but patients with diabetes must be mindful of what they eat year-round. Start now. If you and your loved ones call Westfield, IN, or the Hamilton County area home, schedule a visit or contact us at (317) 896-6655. Make an appointment with Dr. David Sullivan, a Certified Wound Specialist.