Diabetes is a serious disease that affects the whole family. It is chronic and life-threatening because over time, high blood glucose can cause major health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke (brain attack), poor circulation, foot problems, eye problems, nerve damage, and kidney disease. And with age comes an increased risk for specific complications that require diligence and care.
If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, ask your health care provider or consult with a registered dietitian about a meal plan that can help control your diabetes. You need to carefully monitor your carbohydrate consumption, as well as total fat and protein intake, and reduce calories. Routine exercise improves the body’s use of insulin, and can lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes; talk with your doctor before you start an exercise program. Ask your doctor about taking insulin and/or oral medication. Some diabetes pills work by stimulating the pancreas to make more insulin, or by improving the effectiveness of insulin, or blocking the digestion of starches. Testing your blood glucose level will let you know how controlled your blood sugars are and if you need to take actions to change your treatment plan. Ask your doctor if, when, and how you should check for ketones in your urine. Ketones are acids that can build up in your body. Make sure that you get a pneumonia shot and annual seasonal flu shots.
Staying within a healthy weight range offers these benefits: lower blood sugar; lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels; less stress on hips, knees, ankles, and feet; more energy and easier breathing. Check with your doctor before starting a weight loss plan.
Diabetes requires a lifelong management plan to keep it under control. In addition to a healthy diet, regular exercise, oral medication, insulin therapy, and stress reduction, there are many natural treatments for type 2 diabetes. Natural remedies, such as relaxation therapies (deep breathing, meditation, or visualization) are recommended since they are safe and easy to do at home.
