Do you often feel tired, hungry, and thirsty, and find yourself passing urine more frequently? Do you have cuts or grazes that heal slowly? These may be symptoms of type 2 diabetes. While the actual cause of type 2 diabetes is still unknown, certain risk factors can increase your chances of developing this condition.
What can cause type 2 diabetes?
Some risk factors that can increase your chances of getting type 2 diabetes include having a family history, being overweight or obese, especially with excess weight around the waist, having low levels of physical activity, and eating a poor diet. In particular, healthy eating habits can play a major role in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.
How can you manage type 2 diabetes?
Managing type 2 diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and monitoring of blood sugar levels. Here are some ways to manage type 2 diabetes:
Healthy eating: Following a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates can help manage blood sugar levels. The Mediterranean diet has been shown to be particularly effective in managing type 2 diabetes.
Regular exercise: Physical activity can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. It’s recommended to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Medication: Depending on the severity of the condition, medication may be necessary to manage blood sugar levels. This can include oral medications or insulin injections.
Monitoring blood sugar levels: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important in managing type 2 diabetes. This can be done through at-home blood sugar testing or continuous glucose monitoring systems.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help improve insulin sensitivity and manage blood sugar levels.
Managing stress: Stress can affect blood sugar levels, so managing stress through techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or exercise can be helpful.
How does the Mediterranean diet work to manage diabetes?
One of the reasons the Mediterranean diet is beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes is that it may improve insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When your body becomes resistant to insulin, your blood sugar levels can become elevated, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. The Mediterranean diet can help improve insulin sensitivity, which means your body is better able to use insulin to regulate blood sugar levels.
Another reason the Mediterranean diet can help manage type 2 diabetes is that it can lead to weight loss. Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. By adopting a Mediterranean-style diet, you may be able to lose weight and improve your overall health.
If you’re looking to prevent or manage type 2 diabetes, consider adopting a Mediterranean-style diet. This way of eating can help improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and improve overall health. Contact Med E Life for a personalised plan to improve your health through food!