And here’s how you could apply the same principles, too.
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Did you know thatdiabetes can increase the risk of dementia?
Scientists arent exactly sure why, and there may be several reasons.
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For example, high levels of sugar in the blood can damage blood vesselsincluding those in the brain.
How Was the Study Conducted?
The study included a total of 55,618 people with an average age of 68.
Each person had diabetes for an average of about six years.
The data was drawn from medical records spanning eight yearsfrom 2011 to 2019.
The RAMP-DM group received multidisciplinary care that included a team of medical providers.
The other group acted as the control group and received usual care.
Usual care included seeing their primary care physician every two to four months.
The PCP performed physical examinations, prescribed and adjusted medications, and referred these patients to specialists as needed.
The RAMP-DM group received usual care plus a host of other benefits.
Their care team included physicians, nurses and allied health professionals, including registered dietitians.
They also received health education and general guidance for diabetes management.
Participants in the RAMP-DM group were referred to specialists for any risk factors found.
Participants with missing baseline data were also excluded.
Interestingly, there was also a connection between A1C levels below 6.5% and dementia.
Researchers explain that for the study, the healthy target A1C range was 6.5% to 7.5%.
Levels below 6.5% suggested frequent incidences of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and poor glycemic control.
How Does This Apply to Real Life?
The primary goal for people with diabetes is to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
This can be easier said than done, but definitely achievable.
you’ve got the option to use these same tools.
Its also good to have a cardiologist and an ophthalmologist on your medical team for heart and eye health.
If youve been prescribed medication, take it as prescribed.
This can help you start connecting the dots between how youre feeling with high and low blood sugars.
Diet is super important to pay attention to with diabetes.
Other lifestyle factors that influence blood sugar levels are exercise, stress andsleep.
Evenbeing dehydrated can increase your blood sugar.
There is evidence thatwalking for just two minutes after mealscan help lower blood sugar.
You may need to be an advocate for yourself regarding your diabetes care.
Remember that an occasional off reading isnt what will affect your A1C level.
Start where youre at and gradually make changes in those areas.
And lean on the advice and support of your diabetes care team.