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Dr. Zarate's Diabetic Foot Guidelines

Overview

To reduce the risk of serious diabetes-related foot complications, remember these key points:

  • Inspect your feet daily and report any cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail changes.
  • Wash feet with lukewarm water, dry thoroughly, moisturize (not between the toes), and never walk barefoot.
  • Eat every 2–3 hours, avoid carbohydrates after 6:00 PM, walk 30 minutes daily, and drink 6–7 bottles of water each day.
  • Don't smoke, and schedule regular foot exams with your healthcare provider.
  • Blood Glucose Guide (mg/dL): 60–100 | 100–150 | 150–200 | 200–250 | 250–300 | 300–350
  • A1C Guide (%): <6.0 | 6.0–6.5 | 6.5–7.0 | 7.0–7.5 | 7.5–8.0 | 8.0–8.5

Daily Foot Care

Inspect your feet every day for:
— Cuts
— Blisters
— Redness
— Swelling
— Nail problems.

Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water, dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, and apply moisturizer to prevent dry skin, avoiding the areas between your toes.

Trim your toenails straight across and file the edges carefully. Never attempt to remove corns or calluses yourself; instead, seek professional care.

Always wear clean, dry socks and properly fitting shoes. Check the inside of your shoes before wearing them to ensure there are no objects that could injure your feet. Never walk barefoot, even indoors, and avoid using heating pads or hot water bottles if your feet become cold.

Healthy Habits for Diabetes Management

Keeping your blood sugar under control is essential for preventing complications.

If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking reduces blood flow and increases the risk of foot complications.

Eat balanced meals every 2–3 hours to support metabolism and maintain healthy glucose levels, and avoid carbohydrates after 6:00 PM.

A suggested meal schedule includes:

  • 8:00 AM: Breakfast
  • 10:30 AM: Snack
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch (avoid sugary sodas)
  • 3:30 PM: Snack
  • 6:00 PM: Dinner (focus on vegetables and lean proteins)

In addition, aim to walk for at least 30 minutes each day and drink 6–7 bottles of water daily.

Regular medical checkups, including routine foot examinations, are also important for detecting problems early and maintaining overall health.

By practicing daily foot care, following healthy eating habits, staying active, staying hydrated, and managing blood sugar levels, individuals with diabetes can greatly reduce their risk of serious foot complications and enjoy a healthier, more active life.