Managing Type 2 Diabetes is a Way of Life

Type 2 diabetes is more than a condition; it is a way of life. Twenty million Americans have the condition and a further 16 million are in the pre-diabetic stage. The two groups together make up nearly 12% of the population, most of whom are living with a condition that was largely caused by our modern life style and for which there is no cure. The nearest you can get to a cure for type 2 diabetes is prevention, but it can only be managed once the condition has developed.


The main risk factors for type 2 diabetes are being over weight, being inactive, having an unhealthy diet and age. However, because of our modern life style and diet, the condition is now being seen more frequently in younger people, and even children, who are obese. Because type 2 diabetes is largely attributable to life style factors, changing these factors will have a significant effect on your condition.

By continuing with a diet that is high in fat, salt and sugar and that also contains a significant amount of highly processed foods, you are literally digging your grave with your teeth. An alternative more active life style based on healthy eating and calorie control is required if you want to avoid serious health problems or even an early grave.

Your primary challenge is to reduce your weight until you reach the ideal weight for your height and gender, and then to maintain your weight at that level. This requires a major overhaul of your dietary habits and mind set.

A healthy diet for diabetics is the same as for non-diabetics. It should be low in fat and salt and moderate in sugar. It should also include fresh fruit and vegetables. Try to eat five portions of different fruits and vegetables each day. Your vegetables should be lightly steamed or, if suitable, eaten raw. Avoid frying your food, especially deep frying; choose grilling or baking instead. You should avoid sweetened carbonated drinks as these can contain a lot of sugar. Instead, drink plenty of water.

You will lose weight faster and not feel hungry between meals if you have six small healthy meals a day.

Your second challenge is to become more active. Walking is the most comfortable and natural form of exercise. Walking quickly for just 30 minutes a day not only burns up calories, but it also uses up more glucose in your blood. By using more calories than you consume, your body will take the extra energy it needs from your stores of body fat causing you to lose weight. It will also reduce your insulin resistance.

Your goal is to achieve and then maintain the ideal weight for your height and gender and in so doing you will bring your condition under control and may even reverse its effects. Having a healthy diet and being more active is the best way to do this. Managing your type 2 diabetes is about having a healthy way of life.

Robert Reddin is a writer with more than 7 years experience and has numerous off-line and on-line articles to his credit. His interest in diabetes arose when a close family member was diagnosed with the condition. You can find more information about treating diabetes here To visit my blog, Diabetes Diet Breakthrough Click Here