Type 2 diabetes is a condition that occurs mostly due to obesity. In this condition, the cells of the body are not able to update glucose molecules for energy from the bloodstream due to increased insulin insensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by beta cells of the pancreas, required by the cells of the body for the acceptance of glucose molecules from blood.
In this condition, a person feels lethargic most of the time because the cells of the body are unable to produce energy. This condition can be treated or reversed with modifications in their lifestyle.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes that Lead to the Management of Diabetes
Whenever we talk about the management of any metabolic and chronic disease, dietary factors play a major role in it. Here also, in the management of type-2 diabetes, which is, in most cases, caused due to high BMI, high-kcal intake, food choices such as processed foods and sedentary lifestyle. These factors are directly linked to the dietary pattern a person is following and due to this, they get diabetes.
Hence, dietary modifications will play a very important role in balancing blood glucose levels and preventing them from spiking up. No one-size-fits-all approach may ever work for all persons eating healthy with type-2 diabetes. The nutritional management ADA (American Diabetes Association) recommendations are:
Nutrient-rich foods are preferred, such as legumes, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meat and healthy fats (nuts and seeds), fish and eggs.
Even spacing and small, and frequent meals are preferred throughout the day.
Avoid skipping your meals if a person is on medications as it may cause blood sugar levels drop to too low.
Always remember the concept of GI (Glycaemic Index) while making food choices. A person is preferred to choose low-GI foods for his meals.
Do not forget to practice portion control.
Limit the intake of refined (simple) carbohydrates.
High-fibre and magnesium-rich foods should be included in the diet.
Apart from dietary management, physical exercise and medications also play a crucial role in the management of diabetes as:
Physical exercise: - It leads muscles to uptake glucose from the blood and hence, leads to a decrease in blood sugar levels making it beneficial for diabetic people.
Medications: - Medications such as insulin shots are sometimes provided depending upon the person’s health history and present status so that glucose gets utilized by the cells of the body.
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