Mount Pleasant Magazine May/June 2018

201 www.RetiringToSC.com | www.ILoveMountPleasant.com | www.ReadMP.com senior living energy source for the body, too many carbohydrates can cause hyperglycemia in people with diabetes. A heart- healthy diet – one that emphasizes fruits, vegetables and whole grains and that limits unhealthy fats – is recommended. “A diet for a senior with diabetes should be about small changes that they can stick with for the rest of their life,” she said. “Diets fail. Making healthier choices most of the time and controlling portions so that all foods can fit are what creates a successful ‘diet.’ Working with a CDE and/or registered dietitian is invaluable so that they can individualize a meal plan to fit the person’s needs and preferences.” A healthy exercise routine is equally important in managing diabetes. It is recommended that seniors work toward 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week and strength train as well. “People ask me if diet or exercise is more important when you have diabetes,” said Reinhart. “My response is: ‘You can’t fly a plane without two wings!’ Both are vital in maintaining not only healthy glucose levels but healthy blood vessels. Exercise is the fountain of youth.” It’s never too late to begin an exercise routine. Statistics show that most people over the age of 65 don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle, and, for many, that is because they don’t know where to begin. Whether you have never exercised regularly or if you used to be active and find it hard to come back from a break, small changes can lead to big differences in your health. There is no cure for diabetes, but, in most cases it can be controlled with insulin, medication, a healthy diet and consistent exercise. “Diabetes is a chronic disease. Controlling it can be challenging and hard work, but most of us have worked hard at something to achieve a goal. It is totally doable,” Reinhart smiled. “The goal is to improve quality of life and decrease the risk of sometimes devastating complications associated with diabetes. Just take it one day at a time.” MOUNT PLEASANT 501 Belle Hall Pkwy., Suite 101 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 WEST ASHLEY 1180 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 310 Charleston, SC 29407 SUMMERVILLE 1055-D N. Main Street Summerville, SC 29483 ESTATE PLANNING WILLS & TRUSTS Planning for Peace of Mind... www.BandCLawFirm.com Butler & College, LLC 843.225.3167 W W W . B E S T O F M P . C O M