Lifestyle Changes when Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes
Invariably when someone is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes their reaction ranges from shock to disbelief. Shock (“There is no way I could be diagnosed with diabetes! Neither of my parents had diabetes.!”); denial (I don’t believe it! I need to get a second opinion.”).
While each person may react differently, there are changes that everyone should make in their lifestyle immediately in order to manage type 2 diabetes. The following are three areas that must be given attention:
Exercise and Fitness: Exercise is recommended as an integral part of everyone’s daily activities, but it plays an even more important role in the lives of persons who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It’s important to recognize that this does not mean that you have to go overboard and engage in intense marathon-type running or bench-pressing.
The goal is to become more active or introduce simple activities that will keep you moving. Consistency is key therefore it’s important to do tasks that you’ll enjoy and will want to continue doing on a regular basis. It may be taking 2-15 minute walks at a moderate pace with friends on a daily basis, or it may be one gardening session and then one walking session per day. A very important note is that you should always clear any new program of exercise with your healthcare professional.
Educate Yourself: Like any other form of medical issues, you want to learn more about your illness so that you know what to expect and what to avoid.
In many areas of the United States there are Diabetic Support groups that provide educational materials and group meetings. The American Diabetes Association also provides a Living with Diabetes program that offers the opportunity to learn more about diabetes and how to live with diabetes over a 12-month period.
Diet and Eating Habits:
What you eat is as important as how often you eat. You may need to completely change your eating habits. Since everyone’s body reacts differently to insulin absorption or how it handles insulin there is no one-size-fits-all in the way persons diagnosed with type 2 diabetes should eat.
Eating a variety of foods is a better option than sticking to just one type of food so that you become bored within a short time. It’s more important for your diet to have a combination of foods like vegetables, whole grains, fruits, non-fat dairy foods, healthy fats, and lean meats or meat substitutes.
Eating more complex foods that take a longer time to be digested also prevents spikes in blood sugar. Further, eating small meals more frequently is recommended in order to maintain blood sugar levels at a steady rate during the day. Large meals less frequently can result in dramatic spikes in insulin, which are best to avoid at all costs.
When diagnosed with type 2 diabetes there are lifestyle changes that must be made. Once these changes become a habit, you’ll find that it’s easier to fall into a pattern that leads to a healthier lifestyle.
