At InTouch Primary Care in Sugar Land, TX, we provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals managing diabetes. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or have been living with diabetes for years, our personalized approach focuses on empowering you to live a healthier, more fulfilling life. From tailored treatment plans to ongoing support, we’re here to help you take control of your health and reduce the risks associated with diabetes.
Over 37 million Americans live with diabetes, while another 96 million have pre-diabetes—many without knowing it. Through evidence-based lifestyle interventions and comprehensive medical care, achieving optimal blood sugar control becomes possible, preventing serious complications and improving quality of life for years to come.
Dr. Ashaye’s Evidence-Based Approach to Diabetes Prevention and Management
“Diabetes management is about empowering patients to take control of their blood sugar through sustainable lifestyle changes,” explains Dr. Adelola Ashaye, board-certified Family and Lifestyle Medicine physician. “My approach combines the latest medical research with personalized care, focusing on preventing complications while helping patients maintain the lifestyle they enjoy.”
As a 2024 Top Doctor recognized by Houstonia Magazine, Dr. Ashaye brings over 14 years of experience in family medicine and specialized training in lifestyle medicine to diabetes care, ensuring patients receive the most current, effective treatment strategies.
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: From Normal to Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when your body cannot properly move glucose from your blood into your cells, where it’s needed for energy. When blood glucose levels remain elevated for prolonged periods, this high blood sugar begins damaging vital organs, particularly your heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves.
Your blood sugar levels fall into specific diagnostic categories that help guide treatment decisions:
- Normal Blood Sugar: Fasting blood sugar 100 mg/dL or less, A1c 5.7% or lower
- Pre-Diabetes: Fasting blood sugar 100-125 mg/dL, A1c 5.7-6.4%
- Diabetes: Fasting blood sugar 126 mg/dL or higher, A1c 6.5% or higher
Pre-diabetes serves as a critical warning sign—without intervention, 15-30% of people with pre-diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within five years. However, this progression isn’t inevitable when proper lifestyle changes are implemented early.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose), which is vital for energy. There are three main types:
Type 1 Diabetes
An autoimmune condition where the body produces little or no insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes
The most common form, often linked to lifestyle factors, where the body doesn’t use insulin effectively.
Gestational Diabetes
Occurs during pregnancy and typically resolves after childbirth but can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. However, with the right care, many individuals manage diabetes effectively and live healthy lives.
Early Warning Signs and Diabetes Symptoms
Many people with pre-diabetes and early-stage diabetes experience no obvious symptoms, making regular blood sugar screening essential for early detection. However, some individuals do notice subtle changes that warrant medical evaluation.
Common symptoms that may indicate elevated blood sugar include:
Increased Thirst
Feeling unusually thirsty throughout the day
Frequent Urination
Needing to urinate more often, especially at night
Unexplained Fatigue
Feeling tired despite adequate rest
Blurred Vision
Difficulty focusing or changes in eyesight
Slow Healing
Cuts, bruises, or infections that heal slowly
Tingling or Numbness
Particularly in hands and feet
Unexpected Weight Loss
Losing weight without trying
Increased Hunger
Feeling hungry shortly after eating
Dr. Ashaye emphasizes that many patients with pre-diabetes feel completely normal, which is why routine blood sugar screening during preventive care visits is so important for early intervention.
Did You Know?
- According to the CDC, more than 37 million Americans have diabetes, and 96 million adults have prediabetes.
- Proper diabetes management can lower the risk of heart disease by up to 20% and improve overall quality of life.
(Source: CDC Diabetes Data and Statistics)
Comprehensive Diabetes Care and Blood Sugar Management
Your diabetes evaluation begins with thorough blood work, including fasting blood glucose, A1c testing, and comprehensive metabolic panels to assess your overall health status. Dr. Ashaye reviews your complete medical history, family diabetes history, current medications, dietary patterns, exercise habits, and lifestyle factors that influence blood sugar control.
Understanding your individual risk factors helps create an effective diabetes management plan. Age, family history, weight, physical activity level, stress management, and sleep quality all play crucial roles in blood sugar regulation. Dr. Ashaye uses this comprehensive assessment to develop personalized strategies for optimal glucose control.
Your treatment plan emphasizes evidence-based nutritional interventions proven to improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. The focus centers on choosing the right types of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats while avoiding foods that cause insulin resistance and blood sugar spikes.
For patients with diabetes, Dr. Ashaye coordinates comprehensive care including regular monitoring, medication management when necessary, and preventive screening for complications. This includes coordination with eye specialists for yearly retinal exams, foot care assessment, and cardiovascular risk reduction strategies.
“I believe in treating the whole person, not just the blood sugar numbers,” notes Dr. Ashaye. “My patients learn practical strategies they can implement immediately to see improvements in their energy, weight, and overall well-being while protecting their long-term health.”
Regular follow-up appointments allow for treatment adjustments based on your A1c results, lifestyle changes, and evolving health needs, ensuring you maintain optimal blood sugar control over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetes Diet and Natural Blood Sugar Control
Choose carbohydrates from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains like whole barley, brown rice, buckwheat, bulgur, millet, popcorn, rye, quinoa, whole oats, and whole grain bread, tortillas, or cereals. Avoid processed carbohydrates that contain added fats, sugar, and sodium, which cause insulin resistance and blood sugar spikes.
Substitute animal protein with plant proteins such as kidney beans, pinto beans, white beans, black beans, lima beans, black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), split peas, lentils, and edamame as much as possible. These foods help improve insulin sensitivity while providing essential nutrients for diabetes management.
Choose polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats like cold-water fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines), avocado, nuts and seeds (flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts), and plant oils such as flaxseed oil and olive oil. Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats from cheese, baked goods, dairy, meats, and fried foods, which cause insulin resistance.
Strictly limit or avoid meat, baked goods, fried foods, cheese, added sugars, and dairy products. These foods are primary contributors to insulin resistance and blood sugar elevation, making diabetes management more difficult.
Begin regular physical activity with a goal of 150 minutes per week. Start slowly with 10 minutes daily and gradually increase length and intensity over time. Regular exercise significantly improves insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.
Patients with diabetes should have blood work checked at least twice yearly, with some requiring more frequent monitoring. This includes A1c testing, fasting glucose, kidney function tests, and cholesterol screening to prevent complications and optimize treatment.
While Type 2 diabetes is not “cured,” it can be effectively managed, and in some cases reversed with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise.
This depends on your treatment plan, but most individuals monitor their blood sugar 1-4 times daily. Your doctor will provide specific recommendations.
Not always. Insulin is commonly prescribed for Type 1 diabetes, but many people with Type 2 diabetes can manage their condition with lifestyle changes and oral medications.
Yes! We provide personalized dietary plans and education to support healthy blood sugar levels and overall well-being.
Why Choose InTouch Primary Care for Expert Diabetes Management
Dr. Adelola Ashaye’s dual board certification in Family Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine provides a comprehensive approach to diabetes care that addresses both medical management and sustainable lifestyle modifications. Her 14+ years of clinical experience, combined with recognition as a 2024 Top Doctor by Houstonia Magazine, ensures you receive evidence-based, cutting-edge diabetes care.
Through the Direct Primary Care model, you receive extended appointment times to thoroughly discuss your concerns, understand your treatment options, and develop realistic strategies that fit your lifestyle. Dr. Ashaye’s expertise in lifestyle medicine means you’ll learn proven techniques to naturally improve blood sugar control, potentially reducing your need for medications over time.
The practice’s focus on preventive care and patient education empowers you with the knowledge and tools needed for successful long-term diabetes management, helping you avoid complications while maintaining your quality of life.
Meet Dr. Adelola Ashaye
My interest in the medical field was first sparked when I was in high school, by my observation of a patient-doctor relationship. Many years have passed since that interaction which took place at Alpena General Hospital in Michigan; and it is the desire to build and maintain meaningful long lasting relationships that continues to draw me to medicine.
Transform Your Health with Professional Diabetes Care in Sugar Land
Pre-diabetes and diabetes don’t have to limit your future or compromise your health goals. With expert medical guidance, comprehensive blood sugar monitoring, and evidence-based lifestyle interventions, you can achieve excellent glucose control and prevent serious complications. Dr. Ashaye and the team at InTouch Primary Care are committed to supporting your journey toward optimal health through personalized, expert diabetes care in Sugar Land and Missouri City.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking better management, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward better health.
Take Control of Diabetes & Pre-Diabetes
Learn how to manage blood sugar, eat healthier, and stay active to prevent or control diabetes. Download your free eBook today!
