How is type 2 diabetes managed?

It is a chronic condition in which the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood glucose levels. People with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) often have insulin resistance. Managing your diabetes is important to prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

In Type 2 diabetes, there are two problems. The pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or the cells do not respond to insulin and absorb less.

There is no cure for type 2 diabetes. A well-balanced diet with exercise and weight management can usually help manage the condition. Furthermore, if lifestyle factors are not enough to control blood sugar, diabetes medications or insulin therapy may be needed.

There are many lifestyle adjustments. Diet and physical activity can help manage blood glucose levels as well as high blood pressure and cholesterol.

The aim of managing diabetes is to prevent complications. Individuals with type 2 diabetes need regular health checkups to monitor complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy. There needs to be regular eye exams to detect and treat diabetic retinopathy, and foot care for the care of feet to prevent ulcers and infections.

Management of blood pressure and cholesterol is very important to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Similarly, conducting kidney function tests to monitor diabetic nephropathy.

Diet and type 2 diabetes

A balanced, healthy diet is fundamental in managing type 2 diabetes. Individuals should focus on carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, and avoid sugars and refined carbs. There are healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, and olive oil, that should be included in a diet. Refined oils and saturated fats should be avoided.

To have a balanced diet, we need to include proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes as well as a high-fiber diet. The fiber-rich diet helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can be done through consuming plenty of vegetables and fruits as well as whole grains.

Ensuring good portion control with smaller, frequent meals can help manage your blood sugar levels. People wanting a healthier lifestyle and having trouble with their diet can consult a registered dietitian.

Physical activity and diabetes

Living with type 2 diabetes requires exercise to increase insulin sensitivity and help control blood glucose levels. People with T2DM or those wanting to reduce the risk of developing diabetes should aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, and swimming as strength training can be beneficial.

Individuals who engage in physical activity can achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. In overweight people losing weight, even if it's 5-10% of body weight can have a positive outcome long term.

Limiting smoking and alcohol in diabetes

Individuals should aim to reduce or quit smoking altogether, as it increases the risk of diabetes complications. Quitting smoking is crucial for overall health and effective diabetes management. Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels and interact with diabetes medications. People trying to manage their health should limit intake and always consume it with food to reduce its effects.

Although lifestyle changes are the most important step in managing type 2 diabetes, some medications may be necessary. These medications are prescription medications and are prescribed after a thorough consultation with a doctor. The first-line medication usually begins with metformin to help lower glucose production.

Other medications are sulfonylureas, which promote more insulin production, thiazolidinediones to increase insulin sensitivity, and DPP-4 inhibitors to reduce blood sugar levels. There are medications such as GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, which mimic the effects of a hormone that helps lower blood sugar after eating and can promote weight loss. Some individuals with type 2 diabetes may eventually need insulin therapy to achieve target blood sugar levels.

Individuals need to monitor their regular blood sugar levels to manage type 2 diabetes. This can be done through self-monitoring using a glucometer to check blood sugar levels several times a day. This allows individuals to help track meals, exercise, and medication. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems provide real-time glucose readings to identify patterns and make adjustments to treatment.

Managing type 2 diabetes can be challenging. Patients need a healthcare team that can provide psychological support, medication, and counseling to better manage living with diabetes.A dietitian can help with a better understanding of diet and the contribution an unhealthy lifestyle can have to the chronic condition.