Why is it so hard to make lifestyle changes?

Are you frustrated about having to go to the doctor a lot, missing work or not feeling well? Such feelings can point to the need to make some lifestyle changes, especially if you have diabetes.

Despite continual medical advances, the danger for death among people with diabetes is about twice that of people without diabetes. One reason is that many don't realize how they can lower their risks by making some permanent changes to their lives. Or they know they need to change, but don't want to.

The process of change

As they approach change, most people experience this process.

1. They don't want to change.


2. They think about the benefits of changing and the risks of not changing.


3. They prepare to change.


4. They practice and maintain the new behavior.

When you found out you had diabetes, your doctor, nurse practitioner or health educator probably told you to make changes like these:

• Make your diet compatible with good blood sugar control.


• Frequently and consistently monitor your blood sugar.


• Stop smoking.


• Reduce alcohol use.


• Get regular exercise.


• Keep or get your weight within a healthy range.

It's easy to agree that doing such things now will help you avoid complications later. But it's almost impossible to make so many changes at once.

• If you're newly diagnosed with diabetes, try making one change at a time. When you feel comfortable with one new behavior, think about adding another.


• If you've had diabetes for awhile and have trouble with keeping up a healthy behavior, don't get discouraged. It's normal to occasionally go back to an old habit. This doesn't mean you've failed; it just means you're human.

The more you know about your diabetes, the more likely you are to avoid serious complications. Get as much information as you can from your health care team.

• A dietitian can review your food plan and let you know what you can do to control your blood sugar better.


• A diabetes educator can look at your work and family needs and help you form an exercise routine that won't compromise those obligations.


• Your doctor, nurse practitioner or diabetes educator can answer questions and help you troubleshoot, for instance, if you're having a hard time testing your blood sugar or determining how much insulin you need.

And remember your loved ones. Their support can make it easier to make permanent changes. For example, make sure your family understands that a meal plan that's good for diabetes is also healthy for the rest of the family. If you're having trouble getting into an exercise routine, find someone you can exercise with.

Related Links

Diabetes support groups

Dialog: Living with Diabetes

Diabetes Condition Center

Diabetes, endocrinology and metabolism care

First published: 05/15/2000
Last updated: 05/31/2004

Reviewed by: Mary Frederick, RN, diabetes program manager, Allina Medical Clinic; Paul Kleeberg, MD, medical director, Internet/Intranet Services, Allina Hospitals & Clinics