Collaborative Post¦ Type 2 diabetes (T2) is becoming more and more of a concern nowadays as many are developing it. As it is becoming common, this means that more people now have to learn to live with a life-changing condition. That can be tough, especially when it happens later on in life.
T2 diabetes is a condition whereby the pancreas, a part of the body, doesn’t produce working insulin. This is usually because a fatty, sugary diet has been consumed over time, so the pancreas has forgotten how to create good insulin as it usually relies on the glucose in fatty, sugary foods.
Unfortunately, it’s not ideal to have a fatty, sugary diet as it can cause a whole range of health conditions. However, now the body has become used to a poor diet. When the body breaks down carbohydrates for energy, it will crave more sugar as that’s what it’s used to.
As a result of the body not making good insulin but needing it, blood sugar levels are often all over the place, and the body gets confused. Thankfully, it is a manageable condition, but there are a few steps to doing so.
Check blood sugar levels
Checking blood sugar levels is essential when it comes to managing T2. Blood sugar levels are monitored by a glucose meter, and it’s pretty simple to do. Meters can vary, with some needing a pinprick of blood to measure glucose, and others can use sensors and wave technology. Essentially, they will all do the same thing, check glucose levels. Glucose levels should be within a particular range, and if they’re not, that’s when it can be decided if a shot of insulin is needed or not. The levels should be checked on several occasions throughout the day.
The glucose monitor used doesn’t really matter. It all depends on personal preference. There are some better than others, but again, it really depends. Sites like https://popsdiabetes.com/best-glucose-meter-reviews/ make it easy to find a suitable monitor that is easy to use. Shopping around is ideal because it’s easier to find a reliable monitor. A diabetes specialist will also be able to recommend good monitors.
Eat well and keep active
When any food is digested, the body breaks it down. It separates the carbohydrates, and then the pancreas will use the carbs and glucose to make the insulin that will run through the bloodstream. As a result of this, the body feels energised. Without the right blood sugar, the body can gain weight or feel lethargic and weak. Getting the right balance is essential!
Everyone with T2 will have a different diet, and that can depend on weight, height, as well as other medical conditions. However, most people with T2 need to eat a wide range of foods. Fruit and vegetables are essential, as are starchy foods, like pasta. Protein is also great for helping the body feel energised. Sugar, fats, and salt must be kept to a minimum to avoid disrupting blood sugar levels.
Food needs to be eaten regularly throughout the day and will often need to be weighed to determine how many sugars, carbs, and proteins are in them. Thankfully, there are diabetic-friendly foods and recipes that have been created specifically for those suffering from diabetes. For example, diabetic-friendly sweets are ideal for someone who still likes a sweet snack but doesn’t want the sugar spike.
Meanwhile, if you are diabetic, then it’s important to look after your blood circulation, especially given how important it is to stay active and keep your blood sugar at a constant level. You can look after your feet’s circulation with Circufiber socks, which are specifically designed with technology clinically proven to increase circulation in your feet and lower legs.
Seek support
Managing T2 can be pretty stressful. No day is ever the same, and there are times where it can feel lonely. When family, friends, and colleagues around us can eat whatever they like, it can feel disheartening, but it’s essential to do what’s best for the body.
There are plenty of support groups available for those with T2, and they’re a great way to meet other people in the same situation. Even if it’s just for a chat or to swap diabetes-friendly recipes, seeking support is a great way to manage T2. Many doctors and dieticians will be able to recommend groups, or local community centres or churches can be visited as there will likely be support groups listed there too.
T2 can have a significant impact on your quality of life but with the right tools and support, it is manageable!
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.