Make a Commitment

• Make the commitment to yourself. Your doctor will help you learn as much as you can about your condition, but the responsibility to do the work necessary to keep it under control is yours. The Mayo Clinic notes that this includes not only monitoring your blood sugar levels carefully, but maintaining a healthy weight and taking every opportunity to improve your health.
  
  

Eat Right

• Eat a healthy diet. The UC Davis Health System points out that there is no pre-set diet for diabetics. You need a healthy balance of high-fiber carbohydrates, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats. The British National Health Service (NHS) adds that each food affects each person differently, and that the key to tailoring your diet is to closely monitor how you react to different foods.
  
  

Exercise

• Exercise regularly. The NHS states that physical activity lowers your blood glucose levels. It is important that you consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise program, but you should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least five times per week. Working with your doctor is important in managing your blood glucose through any lifestyle change.
  
  

Take Care of Yourself

• Take care of your body. The Mayo Clinic notes that there are many ways that you can work to prevent developing the complications of diabetes that simply involve making healthy choices and minimizing risk. Alcohol consumption should be reduced, tobacco is off limits, and your blood chemistry should be closely monitored. Diabetes can cause damage to your feet, eyes, and leave you prone to gum infections, so it is important to take care of them and bring any change to the attention of your doctor.
  
  

Support Systems and Stress

• Develop a strong support system. In addition to your doctor, it is important that the people around you know and understand what you are going through and are able to support you. Stress, according to the UC Davis Health System, can have a direct impact on your health, as well as your motivation to control your diabetes. A strong support system can help alleviate and prevent stress, and help keep your diabetes under control.