Mondays with Mary – ABCs of Diabetes

Posted on March 09, 2026

Diabetes ABCs are steps to help you control your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. They also lower your risk of serious health problems.

A – A1C This blood test shows your average blood sugar over 3 months. Typically, this is done once to 4 times per year. Your health care team can tell you your goal and how often to get tested.
B – Blood pressure High blood pressure can harm your heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain. A normal blood pressure is under 120/80. Ask your health care team what your blood pressure goal should be.
C – Cholesterol High cholesterol can clog blood vessels and raise your risk of heart attack or stroke. This blood test is usually done once a year. If it is elevated, diet changes or medication can help.
S – Stop smoking Smoking and diabetes can narrow your blood vessels making diabetes problems worse. Quitting smoking or vaping is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Watch the video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/vPjdvCjOMH0?feature=share

Additional Resources:

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/managing-diabetes https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/quality-life-diabetes https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/275354/slow-cooker-creamy-butternut-squash-apple-soup/?kw=myrecipes
https://www.eatingwell.com/one-pot-chicken-spinach-sun-dried-tomato-orzo-11866166?kw=myrecipes