Following your diabetes treatment plan takes much time and commitment. Careful diabetes management can reduce your risk of serious — even life-threatening — complications. Here are 3 ways to take an active role in diabetes care and enjoy a healthier future.

1. Make a commitment to managing your diabetes.
Learn all you can about diabetes. Make healthy eating and physical activity part of your daily routine. Maintain a healthy weight. Monitor your blood sugar level, and follow your doctor's instructions for keeping your blood sugar level within your target range.

2. Schedule yearly physicals and regular eye exams.
During the physical, your doctor will look for any diabetes-related complications — including signs of kidney damage, nerve damage and heart disease — as well as screen for other medical problems. Your eye care specialist will check for signs of retinal damage, cataracts and glaucoma.

3. Keep your vaccines up-to-date.
High blood sugar can weaken your immune system, which makes routine vaccines more important than ever.