Diabetes Management
Diabetes is a condition in which your blood sugar, also known as glucose, rises above normal levels. This sugar is the body’s primary fuel source.
According to the International Diabetes Federation (2024), about 11.4% of adults in Singapore—more than 699,000 people—are living with diabetes, and this number is projected to reach nearly 1 million by 2050.
While these figures may sound worrying, there is good news. With the right management of diabetes, you can live a healthy, active and fulfilling life. Understanding how to control diabetes through mindful choices and professional guidance transforms your diagnosis from a limitation into a journey of empowered self-care.
At Prologue The Lifestyle Medical Clinic, we believe that diabetes management begins with understanding your condition and making sustainable changes that work for your lifestyle.
Understanding Diabetes and Why Management Matters
Diabetes is a long-term condition that affects how your body turns food into energy.
Normally, when you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose—a type of sugar that serves as your main source of fuel. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps move glucose from your bloodstream into your body’s cells to be used for energy.
In diabetes, this process doesn’t work properly. Either your body doesn’t produce enough insulin, doesn’t produce any at all or can’t use insulin. Glucose then builds up in your blood, leading to high blood sugar levels.
If left uncontrolled, diabetes causes serious complications because it harms nerves and blood vessels. This damage increases the risk of conditions like heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage and vision loss.
Hypertension Grades & Blood Pressure Categories
Blood pressure is classified into categories to guide diagnosis and treatment intensity. The table below shows the different blood pressure classifications for adults aged 18 and above.
Category | Systolic BP (mmHg) | Diastolic BP (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
Normal BP | < 130 | < 80 |
High – Normal BP | 130 – 139 | 80 – 89 |
These hypertension grades matter because they help your healthcare team determine the best approach to managing your condition. The classification guides decisions such as:
- How soon to begin medication
- Which type or combination of medicines to use
- How frequently you should have monitoring and tests
- Whether you require more screening for possible organ damage affecting your heart, kidneys or eyes.
Need help interpreting your BP levels? We’ll do the work.
Why Diabetes Management is More Than Medication
Successfully managing diabetes is a holistic effort. It goes far beyond simply taking a pill or an insulin shot. It requires a commitment to a comprehensive self-care plan. The ‘major river’ of diabetes advice flows through four key areas:
1
Healthy eating
A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats helps manage blood sugar levels. Watching portion sizes and limiting sugary foods and drinks can make a big difference.
2
Regular exercise
Physical activity helps your body efficiently use insulin, lowers blood sugar and improves heart health. Even simple routines like brisk walking, swimming or cycling can have lasting benefits.
3
Weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces insulin resistance and helps control blood sugar levels. A modest weight loss can improve blood glucose control.
4
Medication & monitoring
Taking prescribed medications and checking your blood sugar regularly are important. This helps you and your healthcare provider make timely adjustments and prevent complications.
How to Control Diabetes – Key Strategies
Diabetes control doesn’t mean giving up the life you enjoy. With the right habits, regular monitoring and a bit of consistency, you can keep your blood sugar levels steady and live a full, active life.
Here’s how to take practical steps toward that balance.
Healthy Eating & Nutrition
A balanced diet is one of the most powerful tools for diabetes control. What you eat, and how much, directly affects your blood sugar levels.
Regular Physical Activity
Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and supports healthy weight management. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per …
Weight Management
For many people, losing weight or preventing weight gain can improve the management of diabetes. Keep in mind that where you store …
Diabetes Management Services at Prologue Clinic
At Prologue The Lifestyle Medical Clinic, we work together to create a care plan that fits your needs and lifestyle. Here’s what you can expect:
Initial assessment & diagnosis
Comprehensive evaluation including blood tests and physical assessments to determine the type and stage of diabetes.
Individualised treatment plan
Tailored care plans combining medication, nutrition and lifestyle strategies.
Ongoing monitoring
Regular HbA1c checks, glucose monitoring and screening for potential complications such as eye, kidney and foot problems.
Nutrition counselling
Guidance from dietitians on healthy eating, portion control and managing blood sugar through balanced meals.
Lifestyle coaching
Support for incorporating regular physical activity, managing stress and maintaining a healthy weight.
Access to subsidised screenings
Under the Screen for Life programme by the Health Promotion Board (HPB), eligible Singapore residents can access subsidised diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol screenings at participating CHAS clinics.
Why Choose Us
At Prologue The Lifestyle Medical Clinic, our team works closely together to deliver care that is coordinated and personalised. We take the time to understand your needs, lifestyle and concerns before creating a treatment plan that feels practical and sustainable for you.
What truly sets us apart is our whole-person approach. We focus not only on managing your blood sugar levels, but also on supporting your overall well-being: physically, emotionally and mentally. You will receive clear, easy-to-understand advice on nutrition, exercise and medication, along with continuous follow-up to help you stay on track.
Because at the heart of what we do is a simple goal: we’re here to help you live well with diabetes, one step at a time.
FAQ
Why is it important to be screened and tested for diabetes?
A report from IPUR and Diabetes Singapore shows that many Singaporeans are unaware of their condition. Among those who believed they did not have diabetes, nearly half were found to have abnormal blood sugar levels, with 41.6% having pre-diabetes and 5.9% diagnosed with diabetes.
This huge gap in awareness means many people are missing the crucial time to act.
That’s why taking control of your diabetes early and maintaining consistent management is the single most important action you can take for your long-term health.
Every small improvement counts. People who actively manage their condition tend to enjoy:
- Higher energy levels and improved mood
- Fewer hospital visits and emergencies
- Better protection for vital organs like the heart and kidneys
- Greater confidence and peace of mind in handling their health
Take proactive steps now.
Can diabetes be cured?
Currently, there is no cure for diabetes. However, the condition can be effectively managed through a combination of medication, healthy eating, regular physical activity and routine monitoring.
With proper control, many people with diabetes live long, healthy and active lives. In some cases, especially with type 2 diabetes, blood sugar levels can return to the normal range through sustained lifestyle changes, a state known as remission.
Do I need to avoid carbohydrates completely?
No, you don’t need to cut out carbohydrates entirely. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy. What matters is the type and portion of carbs you eat. Choose healthier options such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes, and limit refined or sugary foods.
A nutritionist can help you plan balanced meals that support good blood sugar control.
How often should I check my HbA1c?
The frequency of your HbA1c test (which shows your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months) depends on your specific situation:
- At least twice a year (every six months): If your blood glucose control is stable and meeting your treatment goals.
- Every three months: If you have poor glucose control or if your treatment regimen has recently changed.
What lifestyle changes are most effective?
The most effective changes focus on healthy eating, regular exercise, weight management and stress control. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fibre, stay active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, maintain a healthy weight and get enough sleep. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
Are there subsidies for diabetes management in Singapore?
Yes. Singapore offers several subsidy schemes to make diabetes care more affordable. Under the Screen for Life programme, eligible residents can get subsidised screenings for diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol at participating CHAS clinics.
Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP) is a government-supported initiative available to help patients manage long-term illnesses by making treatment more affordable and accessible, by allowing eligible patients to use their MediSave and receive subsidies through CHAS.
To find out more about our subsidies for diabetes management and treatment at Prologue, please reach out to our friendly team.