Any diabetic can tell you what a full-time job it is to manage diabetes and all that it requires to stay healthy. Making sure your diet is under control, blood sugar levels are checked often and taking medications as needed is just a part of the process. Most people assume this is all they can do, but did you know there is a way to turn the disease around and possibly even cure it? This is especially true for Type 2 diabetes and there is a great reason to hope!
Diabetes can be life-threatening if not managed properly. With today’s technology and medical advancements, it is easy to forget what a serious condition this can be, but it is possible to live a completely healthy and normal life!
Reversing Type 2 Diabetes
Whether you are a younger adult or a caretaker for a senior loved one, the most important thing to do to turn Type 2 diabetes around is to lose weight. Extra boy fat seriously affects the way your body produces insulin. Blood sugar can be reduced by eating healthier, getting exercise and complying with medications.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, then chances are even higher that you can completely reverse it! While this depends on several variables, there is no reason that you cannot regain your health.
Numerous studies have proven that even mild exercise can significantly lower your blood sugar levels. When patients were exercising along with eating a balanced low-calorie diet, many were able to come off their diabetes medicines altogether. Others were able to get their sugar levels down to pre-diabetic levels.
While this isn’t a fix-all for all diabetics, it is certainly the first thing you should try. Your doctor can guide you in how much weight should be lost, but generally, 10% of body weight is a good goal to shoot for. Keep in mind that genetics also play a role in diabetes, so there may be thin patients who are just pre-disposed to being diabetic. It will be less likely that blood sugar can be lowered to pre-diabetic glucose levels, but it is ALWAYS a healthy option to live a lifestyle of exercise and a balanced diet.
Can Diabetes Be Reversed with Food?
Because extra body fat is a huge component of diabetes, it stands to reason that losing weight is always the first thing to do. This can be done easier than you think by simply lowering your calorie intake and eating a low-fat diet. Sweets should be avoided, and your diet should include lots of foods rich in fiber and complex carbs. Healthy fats can be consumed, along with many vegetables and some fruits. Your doctor can help you outline a plan that is healthy or recommend a diabetes counselor to guide you. Certain foods metabolize slower which helps your body process sugars. Not to be the bearer of bad news, but if you are serious about combatting diabetes, you should avoid alcohol and sweets since they are both high in sugar.
Starting A Diabetic Exercise Routine
If regular exercise is new for you, go slow and build your tolerance and intensity over a period of weeks, not days. A great goal to shoot for is 30 minutes of cardio 3-5 times per week. On the other days, you can do strength training. There are many helpful videos you can follow or you can join a gym and get a personal trainer to help you. The main thing to remember is that losing weight and getting regular exercise need not cost a lot. Anyone can take a brisk walk or ride a stationary bike. You’ll be surprised at the results once you put your mind to it!
If you are a caretaker for a senior who has diabetes, you can still help them lower blood sugar levels and strive to live healthier lifestyles. For more information on diabetes and how to manage it well for yourself or the senior in your life, please contact us today!
Meet the Author! Lisa Hmiel, Owner of Home Helpers of Jamestown
An industry expert with more than 30 years of successful experience in Health Care Services, Lisa Hmiel has a proven ability to foster relationships by making lives easier while providing care for those in need. Lisa grew up helping the residents of her parents' nursing home, where she first began to recognize the demand of affordable home caregiving. Lisa also has personal experience caring for a loved one after her son's car accident, where she became a full-time caregiver for him. In 2013 Lisa took her desire to help an opened Home Helpers of Jamestown. Lisa is deeply involved in everything from hiring caregivers to interviewing families, making sure everyone finds their perfect match! Learn more about Lisa and her team here!