Setting Goals

Blood sugar goals

When you have diabetes, checking your blood sugar regularly will let you know how well you are managing your diabetes. Work with your doctor or healthcare provider to see what your blood sugar goals should be. Use the numbers below as a guideline for keeping your blood sugar numbers in a normal range.

Fasting sugar

First thing in the morning, before eating or drinking: 80 to 130

After meal sugars

One to two hours after eating a meal: 180 or lower

Remember to write down your blood sugar in a log book to help your provider and you make choices for your diabetes that’s best for you.

Blood pressure goals

Both diabetes and high blood pressure raise your risk for heart attack, stroke, and eye and kidney disease. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends your blood pressure stay under140/90 if you have diabetes. When you keep your blood pressure below 140/90, you’ll help lower your risk for diabetes problems.

How will I know if I have high blood pressure?

High blood pressure doesn’t always have symptoms. You won’t know you have it unless your healthcare provider checks your blood pressure. Have your blood pressure checked every time you visit the doctor. Keep track of your blood pressure by writing the results down. 

What should I do?

Both lifestyle changes and medicines help control blood pressure. Every person needs different treatment. Some people can reach their blood pressure targets with lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or eating healthier. Other people need medicines and lifestyle changes. Work with your healthcare provider to find a treatment that’s right for you.

Weight loss goals

Staying at a healthy weight can make it easier for you to control your blood sugar and keep many other health problems away. The right mix of exercise, choosing the right foods, and eating less will help you lose those extra pounds. You can take small steps to get to your goal of losing weight. Set a few smaller goals at a time and don't try to do it all at once. It takes time to create new habits and break old ones.

Slipping up once in a while will happen. Just be sure to get back on track the next day.

Think of one or two things you are ready and able to change about the way you eat and exercise. Then set a goal for each. Think about three things:

1. What is the behavior that you will change? Be specific.
2. How often will you do this?
3. Don’t try to change too much at once. 

Here are some examples of goals that include these three things:

Eating Goal: Four days each week I will eat an apple instead of ice cream as my evening snack. 

Physical Activity Goal: Five days each week I will take a 30 minute walk during my lunch hour since I don’t really need the whole hour to eat. 

The eating goal is not “I will eat more fruit” or “I will eat healthier.” The activity goal is not “I’ll walk more.” Goals like that are not specific enough.

Once you set your goals, start setting up a plan to help you reach them.