For people with Type II diabetes mellitus, catching the disease early on determines the quality of life that patients will have. Lifestyle modification strategies are generally recommended before instituting pharmaceutical measures to control the disease. Despite the common notion that lifestyle modification is only best for disease prevention, treating diabetes with such has delayed the onset of the cascade of fatal events associated with the disease.
The following are initial lifestyle changes used in treating diabetes mellitus:
1) Exercise. Patients are encouraged to have moderate physical activity for thirty minutes, at least thrice a week. This will help in maintaining weight as well will promote the cells' utilization of carbohydrates, enhance the effects of insulin, and improve cardiovascular function.
2) Dietary changes. Calories derived from carbohydrates and saturated fats are generally restricted to maintain body weight. However, diet should consist of a balance of the three macronutrients. Carbohydrate sources that are in fiber content and obtained from fruits and vegetables such as apples and beans are encouraged. Protein should come from lean meat. Fats are used in moderation. You can use the exchange list provided by the American Diabetic Association. Timing of meals is important with avoidance of skipping and delaying intake. Use of salt is discouraged. Frequent snacking is recommended with small meal portions especially in periods of increased activity.
3) Stress avoidance. Stress can cause an increase in glucose needs of the body because of the increased speed at which most bodily functions work.
4) Hygiene. Optimal care of the body especially of the foot should be done meticulously. This will prevent the multiplication of microorganisms from the increased glucose levels in the blood.
5) Regular checkup. This is an important step in treating diabetes. The patient is encouraged to visit his or her physician for routine checkups. This includes regular eye exams and hemoglobin A1c every three to six months.
The following are initial lifestyle changes used in treating diabetes mellitus:
1) Exercise. Patients are encouraged to have moderate physical activity for thirty minutes, at least thrice a week. This will help in maintaining weight as well will promote the cells' utilization of carbohydrates, enhance the effects of insulin, and improve cardiovascular function.
2) Dietary changes. Calories derived from carbohydrates and saturated fats are generally restricted to maintain body weight. However, diet should consist of a balance of the three macronutrients. Carbohydrate sources that are in fiber content and obtained from fruits and vegetables such as apples and beans are encouraged. Protein should come from lean meat. Fats are used in moderation. You can use the exchange list provided by the American Diabetic Association. Timing of meals is important with avoidance of skipping and delaying intake. Use of salt is discouraged. Frequent snacking is recommended with small meal portions especially in periods of increased activity.
3) Stress avoidance. Stress can cause an increase in glucose needs of the body because of the increased speed at which most bodily functions work.
4) Hygiene. Optimal care of the body especially of the foot should be done meticulously. This will prevent the multiplication of microorganisms from the increased glucose levels in the blood.
5) Regular checkup. This is an important step in treating diabetes. The patient is encouraged to visit his or her physician for routine checkups. This includes regular eye exams and hemoglobin A1c every three to six months.
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