1. Diabetic complications are heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, impotence, high blood
    pressure, and poor leg circulation.

2. A 90 day average blood sugar is measured by a blood test called Hemoglobin A1c. This test
    should be under 6.5 for a well controlled diabetic. This test should be done every 90 days.
    A Hemoglobin A1c under 6.5 is associated with decreased diabetic complications.

3. Annual eye exams: Diabetes causes accelerated growth of new vessels in the retina causing
    decreased vision. treatment consists of laser coagulation of these new vessels.

4. Frequent foot exams: Diabetes causes decreased sensation in the feet. This leads to unfelt minor
    cuts and bruises proceeding to ulceration and abscess. Treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is difficult
    and prolonged. Prevention of foot ulcers by frequent examination and good hygeine is the best
    approach.

5. Exercise, a 30 minute daily walk is sufficient. Exercise is essential in improving Insulin Sensitivity.

6. Stick to your prescribed diet. Frequent small meals, and no late night snacks.

7. Limit alcohol to one drink a day.

8. if there is history of Stroke or heart attack, then LDL Cholesterol should be less than 70 and HDL Chol. greater than 40. Otherwise LDL < 100.

9. Blood pressure <125 over <85. It is advisable for every diabetic to have a home BP monitor.

10. take your medications as prescribed.

11. Smoking Cessation ( Nicotine patch, Wellbutrin or Chantix ) 

12. Summary: Diabetes magic numbers are:

                                      HgbA1c < 6.5
                                      BMI < 27 Kg/M2  ( optimal weight )
                                      BP <125/85
                                      Exercise  150 min/wk
                                      LDL < 100  ( < 70 in the presence of heart disease )   HDL  > 40  Triglycerides  < 150.
                                      Alcohol < 8 Drinks/wk