1.
What are the ABCs of Diabetes Care?
Correct Answer
C. A1C, Blood Pressure, Cholesterol
Explanation
The ABCs of Diabetes Care refer to three important measures to control and manage diabetes: A1C, Blood Pressure, and Cholesterol. A1C is a blood test that measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months. It helps monitor and manage blood glucose levels. Blood pressure control is crucial for individuals with diabetes as high blood pressure can increase the risk of complications. Cholesterol levels should also be monitored as diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, these three measures are essential in diabetes care to maintain overall health and prevent complications.
2.
What does A1C measure?
Correct Answer
A. Average blood sugar over 3 months
Explanation
A1C is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar levels over a period of approximately 3 months. It provides an indication of a person's overall blood sugar control and is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes. By measuring the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated with sugar, the A1C test gives healthcare professionals an idea of how well a person's blood sugar levels have been controlled over time. This information is important for managing diabetes and making necessary adjustments to treatment plans.
3.
Most people with diabetes should try to keep their A1C at ___ or less.
Correct Answer
A. 7.0
Explanation
Most people with diabetes should try to keep their A1C at 7.0 or less because A1C is a measure of average blood glucose levels over a period of time. Keeping it at or below 7.0 indicates good blood sugar control and reduces the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes.
4.
Why should I care what my A1C is?
Correct Answer
A. An A1C at a healthy level will reduce the risk of developing the complications of diabetes
Explanation
Maintaining a healthy A1C level is important because it helps reduce the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes. Diabetes can lead to various health problems such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems. By keeping the A1C level within a healthy range, individuals can minimize the chances of experiencing these complications and maintain overall better health.
5.
High blood pressure increases the risk of:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can lead to various health complications. It puts extra strain on the heart, increasing the risk of a heart attack. Additionally, high blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the brain, increasing the likelihood of a stroke. The kidneys are also affected by high blood pressure, as it can damage the blood vessels in these organs, leading to kidney disease. Therefore, all of the mentioned options - heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease - are potential risks associated with high blood pressure.
6.
Which is the "good or healthy" type of cholesterol?
Correct Answer
B. HDL
Explanation
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) is considered the "good or healthy" type of cholesterol. It helps remove LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol from the bloodstream, reducing the risk of heart disease. High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular problems, while low levels are linked to an increased risk. Therefore, maintaining high levels of HDL cholesterol is important for maintaining heart health.
7.
Which is the "bad or lousy" type of cholesterol?
Correct Answer
A. LDL
Explanation
LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein, which is commonly referred to as the "bad" or "lousy" type of cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Therefore, LDL cholesterol is considered harmful to health, making it the correct answer in this context. HDL, on the other hand, is known as the "good" cholesterol as it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and are not specifically associated with being "bad" or "lousy" cholesterol.
8.
What number should my LDL cholesterol be to avoid heart attack, artery blockage and circulatory problems?
Correct Answer
C. Below 100
Explanation
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels of it can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, artery blockage, and circulatory problems. Therefore, it is recommended to keep LDL cholesterol levels below 100 to minimize the risk of these health issues.
9.
What nutrition advice will best help lower a high A1C?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." All of the mentioned nutrition advice can help lower a high A1C. Keeping portion sizes reasonable helps in controlling calorie intake and maintaining a healthy weight. Eating healthy carbs like fruit and whole grains instead of refined carbs can help regulate blood sugar levels. Keeping junk foods to a minimum reduces the intake of unhealthy fats and sugars, which can contribute to high A1C levels. Combining all of these practices can have a positive impact on lowering A1C levels.
10.
A high sodium diet may elevate blood pressure levels. Foods high in sodium are -
Correct Answer
D. Fast foods and canned foods
Explanation
Fast foods and canned foods are high in sodium content. These types of foods are often processed and preserved with added salt, which increases their sodium levels. When consumed in excess, sodium can lead to water retention and elevated blood pressure levels. Therefore, a high sodium diet, which includes fast foods and canned foods, can contribute to increased blood pressure.
11.
What food habits will help to lower my LDL cholesterol?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Eating only low fat dairy foods, reducing portions of high fat dairy foods, taking skin off of chicken, trimming fat from steak, buying leanest hamburger, and eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can all help to lower LDL cholesterol. Low fat dairy foods and reducing portions of high fat dairy foods can reduce the intake of saturated fats, which can contribute to high LDL cholesterol levels. Removing the skin from chicken and trimming fat from steak can reduce the intake of dietary cholesterol and saturated fats. Choosing leaner cuts of meat, such as the leanest hamburger, can also help lower LDL cholesterol. Additionally, increasing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can provide fiber, which can help lower LDL cholesterol levels.
12.
Can being more active reduce blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels?
Correct Answer
A. Yes, all of these
Explanation
Being more active can indeed reduce blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity helps to improve insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to better regulate blood sugar levels. It also strengthens the heart and improves cardiovascular health, leading to lower blood pressure. Additionally, exercise helps to raise levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, thus improving overall cholesterol levels. Therefore, being more active can have a positive impact on all three of these health markers.
13.
What is a good exercise goal to lose or maintain weight?
Correct Answer
A. 30 minutes; 5 days a week
Explanation
Exercising for 30 minutes, 5 days a week is a good exercise goal to lose or maintain weight. This duration and frequency of exercise allows for consistent physical activity throughout the week, which helps to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. It is important to have regular exercise sessions rather than sporadic ones to see effective results in weight loss or maintenance.
14.
How often should your A1C be checked?
Correct Answer
B. Every 3 months until it is where it should be, then every 6 months thereafter
Explanation
The A1C test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. Initially, it is important to check the A1C every 3 months to monitor and adjust the treatment plan if needed. Once the A1C reaches the target level set by the healthcare provider, it can be checked every 6 months to ensure the blood sugar levels remain stable. Monitoring the A1C regularly helps in managing diabetes effectively.
15.
My blood pressure should be checked every time I visit any doctor
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
It is important to have your blood pressure checked every time you visit any doctor because high blood pressure often has no symptoms and can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Regular blood pressure checks can help identify any potential issues early on and allow for appropriate treatment and management.
16.
It is OK to sometimes skip my diabetes, blood pressure or cholesterol medications
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Skipping diabetes, blood pressure, or cholesterol medications is not okay. These medications are prescribed to manage and control these conditions, and skipping them can lead to serious health complications. It is important to take these medications as prescribed by a healthcare professional to effectively manage these chronic conditions and maintain overall health.
17.
Other behaviors to decrease the risk of health problems are:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above" because all of the mentioned behaviors - brushing and flossing teeth daily, checking one's own feet regularly and having a doctor examine them at least once per year, and getting a yearly eye exam - contribute to decreasing the risk of health problems. By practicing good oral hygiene, taking care of one's feet, and having regular eye exams, individuals can prevent various health issues and maintain overall well-being.
18.
Having diabetes will naturally affect you emotionally as well as physically. What can be helpful?
Correct Answer
C. Being with friends or relative or attending support programs
Explanation
Being with friends or relatives or attending support programs can be helpful for someone with diabetes because it provides emotional support and a sense of belonging. Diabetes can be a challenging condition to manage, and having a support system can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide encouragement. Additionally, being around loved ones or participating in support programs can provide opportunities for learning and sharing experiences, which can further enhance emotional well-being.