Better to Lose and Gain...

If you're in the midst of learning to manage your diabetes, and you're looking to lose weight, you may be happy to learn that just about any effort you make to shed some flab will help your condition.

According to a study in the August 12 issue of Diabetes Care, researcher Gregory A. Nichols claims that "you can achieve some long-term benefits in terms of blood pressure and glycemic control that extend even beyond the point at which you regain weight." That doesn't mean that yo-yo dieting is necessarily good for you, but it may not do so much harm.

In addition to losing weight, here are some other tips for managing your diabetes. 

* Educate yourself. “School House Rock” said it best: Knowledge is power. Arm yourself with as much research and information about diabetes as you can find. Discuss your findings and questions with your primary-care doctor. Remember that no question is too trivial or “dumb” to ask, especially when it regards your health.
 
* Exercise. You already know you should be doing this with or without a diabetes health diagnosis. It’s the best thing you can do to improve your health and show love and respect for your body. Shoot to get at least three 30-minute workouts in each week.
 
* Take Your Medications/Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions. While it may seem obvious, not everyone takes her medications as directed. If your doctor prescribes medications, make sure you are following his or her instructions.
 
* Enlist Your Family and Friends' Support. Making health changes can be difficult. It’s OK to lean on your family and friends for support. They can be your personal cheerleading squad when you hit a slump making changes to your lifestyle.
 
What other tips do you have to share that have helped you control your diabetes? [U.S. News & World Report]