ABCDEs of diabetes are an easy way to remember the important aspects of managing your condition. It helps you monitor your important numbers and enables you to stay on track with your treatment. So, if you are living with diabetes, try to remember these ABCDEs.

'A' is for A1c or HbA1c or glycated hemoglobin. This is a blood test that measures how well your blood sugar was controlled over the past 2 to 3 months.  The ideal HbA1c level should be less than 7%.

'B' is for Blood Pressure. High blood pressure or hypertension is very common among people with diabetes. The recommended blood pressure levels should be less than 130/90 mmHg.

'C' is for cholesterol. Elevated cholesterol levels in the blood is another common condition among people with diabetes and is implicated in increasing risk of heart problems. Regular monitoring of good and bad blood cholesterol (HDL and LDL) along with triglycerides is recommended.

'D' is for healthy Diet and Drug therapy. A nutritious and healthy diet along with the right medication forms the basis for managing blood sugar levels.

'E' is for Exercise. Regular exercise of moderate intensity is recommended for all those with diabetes.

'S' is for Stop Smoking. It is a proven fact that smoking increases the risk of developing heart disease among people with diabetes.

Keep your ABC in control using the DEs and live well with diabetes.