It is very important to get blood tests done in order to know how you
are managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels to prevent complications
such as heart disease.

A1C
The A1C test should be done two to four times a year. This test measures the
average blood sugar for the previous three months and is the best way of finding
out how well your blood sugar is being controlled. High blood sugar
can seriously damage your veins and arteries, leading to heart, eye,
foot and other problems.

     Visit these sites for more information on A1C:
         American Diabetes Association – A1C
         National Diabetes Education Program – Know Your Blood Sugar Numbers
         National Diabetes Information Clearing House – Complications Control

Cholesterol
Your blood should also be tested for cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL and LDL levels.
These are types of fat in the blood stream, some are good (HDL) and some are bad
(LDL, triglycerides). Too much of the bad types can cause arteries to clog and harden,
making it difficult for blood to flow. This has an effect on your entire body.
Maintaining normal levels of cholesterol is especially important in preventing
cardiovascular (heart) disease.

     Visit these sites for more information on cholesterol and heart disease:
         American Diabetes Association
        • Cholesterol
        • Taking Care of Your Heart
         National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse –
         Keep Your Heart and Blood Vessels Healthy


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about preventing the complications of diabetes.