How to Control Type 2 Diabetes

by | Jan 14, 2013 | Health Habits, Nutrition Support, Uncategorized

How to Control Type 2 DiabetesThe more you know about diabetes, the better you can control it and more flexible your can be. This article presents you with actionable information on how to control type 2 diabetes.

Basics of Diabetes Type 2 Control

If you look after yourself and your diabetes, you can continue to live life to the full. Regularly testing your blood glucose, eating and drinking healthily, doing plenty of physical activity and taking your tablets and/or insulin on time, all help control your blood glucose level effectively. Good blood glucose control is vital to reduce your risk of developing long-term complications and your health professional works with you to achieve this. So, here are top 7 tips on how to control diabetes type 2:

# 1 Monitor your blood glucose at home

The key to caring for your diabetes is to keep your blood glucose level within the recommended range of 4 to 7 millimoles (126 mg). Monitor at least thrice a day and adjust your treatment accordingly. Monitoring is critical in preventing long-term complications and is an essential part of Diabetes Type 2 control. Remember that ‘feeling good’ and blood glucose normalcy are two different things. Always use a blood glucose monitor to obtain an actual reading of your sugar levels.

# 2 The occasional HbA1c Test

Although testing your blood glucose level at home is a key part of diabetes care, there is another type of blood glucose test called the HbA1c test carried out by a health professional. This test needs to be done at least twice a year. The HbA1c Test is a vital part of your Diabetes type 2 control because it provides the overall state of your blood glucose levels during the preceding 6 to 8 weeks. Your HbA1c Test results should be no more than 7% (HbA1c Test results are given as a percentage).

# 3 Control over your blood glucose level is the key to control type 2 diabetes

Control over your blood glucose level means that the majority of your home blood glucose tests results should fall with the 4 to 7 millimoles (126 mg) range. Poor control can lead to hypoglycemia (super low) or hyperglycemia (super high) – both of which are dangerous.

# 4 Regular Food and drink is vital to achieving control over diabetes type 2

Eat regular meals based on carbohydrates throughout the day. This will help avoid major fluctuations in your blood glucose levels. Here’s our MyPlate food guide for easy meal planning 😉

# 5 Include exercise or physical activity as part of your diabetes type 2 control

Being physically active helps you control your blood glucose level by improving your body’s sensitivity to insulin. Regular activity lowers your blood glucose level and keeps it better controlled in the long term.

# 6 To achieve control over type 2 diabetes, take your prescribed drugs regularly

If you have been prescribed tablets or insulin, do not skip them unless your blood glucose levels are normal.

# 7 No foods are banned

To avoid depression, it is vital you do not ban any foods. Instead, eat a tiny quantity to satisfy your craving but be aware of the Glycemic index (resultant sugar spike) of the food you eat and alter your medication accordingly. Avoid binging at all costs.

How well you control Type 2 diabetes depends on how well informed you are on your body’s internal working and how it interacts with external stimuli including physical activity and food. Diabetic portions are important so you can also try utilizing our diabetic portion control plate in your every day life.