Diabetes Treatment: Lifestyle Changes and Other Treatment

A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is becoming more and more common. Diabetes is a medical condition that is caused when the pancreas is unable to produce sufficient amounts of insulin or becomes resistant to the insulin that is naturally generated in the body. Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that helps the body tissues to use glucose (sugar) for energy. This particular hormone also helps in storing additional glucose in your fat, muscle, and liver cells. Diabetes treatment can take the form of both lifestyle changes and medications.

This article may contain affiliate links. When you purchase through links on this site, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

There's no one-size-fits-all treatment plan that will work for everyone. Our bodies all react in an individualized fashion to lifestyle changes and to medication. Generally, if you can are able to regulate your blood sugar levels with lifestyle changes, then you may not need to supplement with medication. It's important to work closely with a doctor you trust in order to create a plan that works for you.

Here are some basic starter tips. If you've been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you can expect these things:

Follow a proper diet plan: diabetes is primarily related to glucose and the main source of sugar for your body is the carbohydrates in foods. Portion control and calorie intake are important, as is achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Weight loss is important if you are overweight since obesity can make it more difficult to manage diabetes.
A dietitian can help you work out an individualized diet plan. He or she can also explain how carbohydrates affect your blood sugar and how to balance your meals. Following a healthy diet plan will help you to manage your blood glucose levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure. A medical center can help connect you with a dietitian who works with diabetics. Familiarizing yourself with the diabetes food pyramid can also give you a good place to start in discussions with a dietician.
Regular exercise: a consistent workout plan is something you need to follow religiously. Exercising helps your body to use the sugar stored in the cells for energy. Following a regular workout program has several health benefits like managing your blood sugar levels, keeping blood pressure at a healthy level, helps to lower and/or maintain your cholesterol level, and you may even find it a little easier to lose weight (excess weight can make diabetes more difficult to manage). Exercise is also a natural mood enhancer - it can actually make you feel better and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Medication: sometimes lifestyle changes are not enough, or some people have difficulty making the changes and sticking to them. In this case medication may be appropriate. Your doctor will assess your situation and decide whether pills or insulin are required to treat your diabetes.
Monitor your blood sugar levels: low or high blood sugar levels should be dealt with immediately to avoid complications. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Many types of glucometers are available for checking blood sugar. They are simple to use and can be done at home. Only a small drop of blood is needed in order to get a blood glucose reading. Read, Basic Information for Glucometers for some tips on choosing a glucometer.

An individualized plan for diabetes treatment is necessary to help you avoid further complications as a result of the disease, and to help you feel your best. Although the initial diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can be shocking, early detection and good management can help you to be active, healthy, and feeling great.

Additional Reading:

The information on this website is based on our own research and personal experience, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Questions about your health and individual situation should be directed to your doctor.