The content in this article should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.
Getting diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes can initially feel overwhelming. You might experience a range of emotions, from confusion to concern. And you’re not alone—every year in the U.S., around 1.4 million people get the same news. Remember, this is a starting point for positive change, and there are many resources available to support you in building healthy habits and staying steadfast on your journey.
Here are a handful of tips to help you get started on the right foot.
1. Learn as much as you can
The more you know, the easier it is to make positive, impactful changes. You're here, so you’re already taking a strong first step—and there’s a wealth of valuable information about glucose and glucose management across the Stelo Blog. You’ll find articles about healthy eating, how exercise can help you manage your glucose, why stress management matters, and even the role sleep plays in your health. Equipped with the right knowledge, you'll be ready to take charge and start crushing your goals.
You might also consider looking into diabetes education and self-management programs (DSMES) or diabetes prevention programs (DPP). The American Diabetes Association has a great list.
2. Lean on your healthcare team
Your healthcare providers are there to help you navigate the journey and unknowns, so don’t hesitate to turn to them with questions or concerns. They can also help create a personalized plan for you, including guidance on diet, exercise, glucose monitoring, and even medication if needed. Be sure to keep up with your regular check-ups and appointments—they're not just routine; they’re an important part of staying on track with your goals. Adjusting to a new routine can be tough, but your providers are there to support you and help you make small changes that can have a big impact on your health.
3. Remember, you’re not alone
Finding out you have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes can feel like a lot to handle at first, but you don’t have to go through it by yourself. Connecting with others who have been in your shoes can be incredibly powerful. Hearing their stories, both the struggles and the successes, can offer a lot of comfort and motivation. There’s a whole community of people out there who understand what you’re going through.
Also, don’t forget about the people closest to you—your family and friends. Share what you’re learning with them and help them understand your experiences and goals. A little awareness can go a long way toward building your support network.
4. How Stelo can help
Using a glucose biosensor enables you to easily track your glucose levels 24/7, revealing how food, exercise, and even sleep affect your glucose. Stelo offers valuable data that can help you turn insight into action. Here are a few key features:
Your glucose —anytime, anywhere
Turn your goals into healthy habits with 24/7 glucose data delivered right to your smartphone.
In-the-moment spike detection
Stelo is the only biosensor that lets you know when meaningful glucose spikes happen in-the-moment, so you can better understand them and adjust your habits to minimize them.
Personalized insights
Powerful, personalized daily, weekly, and session summary insights reveal the everyday steps you can take paving the way for significant progress in glucose management.
In-app learning
Make confident choices and build heathier habits with expert-curated information, practical tips, and inspiring guidance.
Reveal connections with activity & meal tracking
Track meals and exercise to reveal how your body responds to certain foods and activities.
A final thought
Getting the support, education, and resources you need can make all the difference in managing type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. With the right tools and a strong support system, you'll be prepared to make positive changes and create healthier habits as you build momentum toward giant leaps forward in glucose wellness.
Curated & reviewed by: Kayce Sol
MA, RN, BSN, CDCES
MA, RN, BSN, CDCES
Kayce Sol is a registered nurse and certified diabetes care and education specialist.
