Menopause may bring a few new challenges when you have diabetes. Here’s a look at what may change and what you can do.
Blood sugar highs and lows. Your body makes less estrogen than it did before menopause. Lower levels may make it harder to regulate your blood sugar (glucose).
Weight. Gaining weight can change how much insulin or diabetes medicine you may need.
Sleep disruptions. Night sweats can disturb your slumber, hampering glucose control.
Heart disease and stroke risks. Having diabetes raises your risk of heart disease and stroke. These risks also rise after menopause as protective estrogen levels fall.
You’ve got this
Talk to your doctor about how to manage any changes in your glucose levels or your weight. If you take diabetes medicines, your doctor may need to adjust the doses.
Ask your doctor what your cholesterol and blood pressure levels should be too. If you’re prescribed medicines to lower your levels, take them as directed.
If you’re bothered by hot flashes and night sweats, ask your doctor what you can do.
A healthy lifestyle may help you manage your diabetes and your heart disease and stroke risk too. For example:
Keep moving. Brisk walking can be a good move. To be safe, talk with your doctor before significantly increasing your activity level.
Follow your meal plan. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, lean meats, fish and nonfat dairy products are a few good choices to include. Ask your doctor for help choosing a meal plan that’s right for you.
Keep a healthy weight. Healthy eating and exercise can help you.
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