Type 2 diabetes is a serious health condition that can lead to some very dangerous health complications if left untreated.
But what can you do about it if you find out you have type 2 diabetes?
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the things you can do to manage type 2 diabetes and keep yourself healthy.
So read on for tips and advice on how to cope with type 2 diabetes!
Recap
In our previous article, we explored the basics of type 2 diabetes.
We learned that it is a chronic condition that occurs when the body becomes insulin resistant or unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.
We also discussed some of the risk factors, such as being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, and being over the age of 45.
Finally, we looked at some of the potential complications associated with type 2 diabetes, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage.
In this article, though, we'll get to the more actionable information, namely explaining the things you can do to manage the condition and potentially, reverse it for the most part.
Lifestyle Changes
If you've been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you may be feeling overwhelmed and helpless.
After all, this is a serious condition that can lead to all sorts of health problems down the road.
But the good news is that, unlike type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes is mainly caused by lifestyle behaviors, meaning that a change in those can, in fact, help with the condition.
So, if you're ready to make some changes, here are a few lifestyle behaviors that you can discuss with your doctor and build up a plan to manage the condition!
Exercise
First and foremost, we have to mention the importance of exercise activities!
This is simply because exercising is one excellent way to help control your diabetes.
When you exercise, your muscles use more sugar, and on top of that, your cells become more sensitive to insulin.
As a result, regular exercise can play an important role in managing type 2 diabetes.
And, of course, it's also good for your overall health!
If you're looking for a way to improve your health and wellbeing, there's no need to look any further than your local gym, as soon as you get clearance from your medical professional!
Nutrition & Weight
When it comes to managing type 2 diabetes, proper nutrition is essential. By eating the right foods and maintaining a healthy weight, you can help to keep your blood sugar levels under control.
While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for people with diabetes, there are some general guidelines that can help you make healthy choices.
For example, aim to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as quality, grass-fed/grass-finished animal products.
Also, limit your intake of highly processed fats and refined carbohydrates.
Basically, focus on a variety of whole foods and ditch packaged, processed ones!
If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your doctor and a registered dietitian. They can help you create a meal plan that meets your individual needs.
Sleeping Habits
The diet and exercise routine are perhaps the two most common considerations for people with T2D.
However, sleep is also an important factor. There is in fact a specific study showing that the quantity and quality of sleep consistently predict the risk of the development of T2D.
And well, this doesn't really come as a surprise, simply because sleep is the stepping stone to optimal health.
It's the time when we are in our deepest state of recovery. A time when a myriad of hormones and chemical reactions come into play for the ultimate goal of our body - to thrive and survive.
This is why sleep is essential for the management of T2D!
Final Thoughts
Diabetes is a serious condition, but there are things you can do to help manage it.
If you have type 2 diabetes, talk to your doctor and have them help you optimize your exercise, nutrition, and sleep!
And if you know someone who has diabetes, share this information with them!
Do you have any questions? Comment below!