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PrintBut then I wonder if I'm making it more complicated than it should be? Back before everyone had computers with fancy reporting software, we just kept a logbook, right? As in, writing basic information on good old-fashioned paper.
So I ask myself if basic information is enough? Do I need to capture the entire context around the data? Maybe not. Or at least, maybe not right away. If I get myself overwhelmed by both the amount of information and the task of collecting it, why not simplify it the best I can? Maybe I should just start with blood sugars, carbohydrate counts, and units of insulin.
Even though I know that information doesn't paint the entire picture, it's a start. Having some of that basic information is better than not having any at all. Some people also think that the act of logging helps them make better decisions — knowing they need to write something down might keep them from eating Doritos out of the bag (rather than measuring out a serving or two), for example.
What about reviewing the information? I remember spending many nights before an upcoming doctor appointment where I would frantically poke my way through my meter memory to fill out a logbook. As I was filling things out, a bunch of trends and patterns would jump out at me. I wish I would have done this more often! I could have made many little adjustments on my own.
As I get 2012 started, I'm going to try to log more of my diabetes information. I'm not going to let myself get crazy with it, as that often just leads to frustration and burnout. I'm also going to make a point to try and review the information more often, which I hope will allow me to spot the easy patterns and trends.
With all of this information, I'm also hoping to provide my diabetes care team with more ways to help me improve my diabetes management.
Read more of Scott Johnson's columns here.
Disclaimer
dLife's Daily Living columnists are not all medical experts, but everyday people living with diabetes and sharing their personal experiences. While their method of diabetes management may work for them, everyone is different. Please consult with your diabetes care team to find out what will work best for you.
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