Breathe properly while exercising

If you're just starting an exercise programme, learning how to breathe properly can help you avoid shortness of breath.
Here are some tips on how to regulate your breathing while exercising, courtesy of the American Lung Association:

• Cough a few times to get rid of any mucus in your lungs.
• Relax and take a few deep breaths before you start your workout. Continue to breathe deeply as you exercise.
• Count as you breathe, and breathe out for twice as long as you breathe in.
• Count to two as you breathe in, and count to four as you breathe out.
• If you feel out of breath, try resting or slowing your pace for a few minutes, then continuing the exercise.

Diabetes: Don’t forget the doctor needs to check too

Even though many diabetics check their blood sugar at home each day, it's important for a doctor to monitor a person's long-term control of the disease.

The A1c test, also called a glycated haemoglobin or HbA1c, gives doctors a view of the patient's blood sugar levels over the prior 120 days – the approximate lifespan of a red blood cell. Results of an A1c can help a doctor understand if a prescribed diabetes treatment plan is working as intended, according to the American Diabetes Association.

The test should be given at least twice a year, the ADA says. Your doctor may want the test done more frequently if you've had trouble controlling your blood sugar, or if the physician has made a recent change in your treatment plan.