To avoid low blood glucose levels, it’s important to check your levels before and after physical activity. Additionally, always carry a snack with you in case your levels drop too low.
Choose the right footwear
Wearing properly fitting shoes that provide adequate support can help prevent blisters and foot injuries during physical activity.
Monitor your feet
Regularly check your feet for cuts, sores, or blisters, especially if you have nerve damage from diabetes.
Maintain good oral hygiene
Brush your teeth before and after physical activity to ensure good oral health, which is essential for overall health.
Listen to your body
It’s crucial to pay attention to your body’s signals and stop any activity that causes pain or discomfort. If you experience dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain, halt the activity immediately.
What can I do to reach or maintain a healthy weight?
Getting sufficient sleep is vital for managing diabetes and promoting overall well-being. Lack of sleep can impact blood glucose levels, hormone levels, and body weight. Tips for better sleep include:
- Establishing a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bedtime
- Creating a comfortable and dark sleeping environment
- Engaging in relaxing activities before bed, such as a warm bath or reading
- Regular physical activity is also important for maintaining a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight.
- Keeping track of your food intake and staying hydrated are also key factors in weight management.
Should I quit smoking?
Quitting smoking or using tobacco products is highly beneficial for your health, particularly in managing diabetes and reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. Seek guidance from healthcare professionals for support in quitting.
In addition to lowering your risk of developing chronic diseases, quitting smoking can also improve your respiratory health, reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging, increase fertility, improve the health of your skin and teeth, and save you money in the long run. It can also improve your sense of taste and smell, reduce the likelihood of secondhand smoke exposure to others, and increase your overall quality of life.
How can I take care of my mental health?
Start taking steps now to lead a healthy lifestyle and effectively manage your diabetes. This includes planning nutritious meals, staying active, getting ample sleep, and avoiding smoking. Collaborate with your healthcare team to establish a personalized plan that incorporates regular physical activity, a balanced meal plan, and tips for improving sleep quality.
Prior to, during, and immediately after physical activity, monitor your blood glucose levels, as exercise can lower them. Low blood glucose levels might persist for an extended period after physical activity, especially if you take insulin or specific diabetes medications.
To prevent high blood glucose levels and ketoacidosis, consider adjusting your insulin dosage before physical activity. However, be aware that low insulin levels may prevent low blood glucose but heighten the risk of elevated glucose levels, leading to ketone production. Elevated ketone levels can result in diabetic ketoacidosis, which necessitates immediate medical attention.
Individuals with diabetes should pay special attention to their feet due to the potential damage from high blood glucose levels. It’s essential to wear comfortable shoes and maintain foot care before, during, and after physical activity.
Weight management may offer health benefits for those with diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider to assess whether you are at a healthy weight and if weight loss is recommended.
- Follow a nutritious meal plan
- Limit calorie intake
- Stay physically active
- Ensure adequate sleep
Quit smoking to lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other diabetes-related complications. Remember that secondhand smoke can also negatively impact the health of those around you.
It is crucial to address diabetes-related stress and mental health challenges. Seek support from your healthcare team or mental health professionals to effectively manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
Participating in clinical trials can aid in advancing diabetes research and treatment, ultimately enhancing healthcare for future generations. Explore federally funded clinical trials related to diabetes management and healthy living to determine if participation is suitable.
Prior to enrolling in any clinical studies, ensure to consult with your primary healthcare provider to guarantee your safety.
Refer to the provided references for further information on diabetes management and guidelines for healthy living.
If you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes or have prediabetes, lifestyle modifications can help in managing blood glucose levels, potentially preventing the need for medication.
Gradually enhance your diet, engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and prioritize dental hygiene to effectively manage diabetes.
Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods high in salt and sugar, such as bacon, chips, cheese, sweets, and cookies.
Prior to transitioning to a strict low-calorie diet, especially if you are taking insulin or other diabetes medication, consult a healthcare professional.
Children with type 2 diabetes require specialized care.
Diabetes courses
Consider enrolling in diabetes courses to gain knowledge on effectively managing the condition and boosting your confidence.
Within a year of diagnosis, you should have access to a free course. Online courses are also available for self-paced learning.
NHS services to help change your lifestyle
If you have type 2 diabetes or are at risk of developing it, inquire about the NHS program designed to provide support for individuals in your situation.
Discuss NHS eligibility with your doctor or nurse.
Find out more
Medicine for type 2 diabetes
If medication is required, metformin is typically the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity in the muscles, leading to better control of blood sugar levels.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management are important for managing type 2 diabetes.
If metformin proves ineffective or if you have other health concerns, alternative medications such as sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, or GLP-1 receptor agonists may be recommended.
In some cases, insulin therapy may be necessary to control blood sugar levels effectively. Insulin can be administered through injections or insulin pumps.
It is important to monitor blood sugar levels regularly and adjust medication dosages as needed. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and seek guidance if you have any concerns or experience side effects.
Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
- If you experience vomiting, diarrhea, or a high temperature while on diabetes medication
Appointments and tests
Regular check-ups are crucial for individuals with type 2 diabetes to monitor treatment effectiveness and overall health status.
- Monitor blood glucose levels every 3 to 6 months
- Undergo foot examinations biennially or annually as needed
- Regularly assess weight, BMI, cholesterol, blood pressure, and kidney function
Diabetic eye screening is recommended as part of the NHS screening program.
It’s important for individuals with type 2 diabetes to schedule regular appointments with their healthcare provider to discuss their management plan, medication adjustments, and any concerns they may have. Testing for HbA1c levels and cholesterol should also be done on a regular basis to ensure proper disease management.
In addition to medical check-ups, individuals should also focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress levels. All of these factors play a crucial role in managing diabetes effectively.
Other changes you may need to make
In addition to medical treatment, managing type 2 diabetes may involve lifestyle adjustments and precautions.
- Consider wearing a medical ID wristband in case of emergencies
- Remember to pack medications when traveling
- Inform the DVLA of any health issues related to diabetes or hypoglycemia
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Contraception, pregnancy and type 2 diabetes
If you have type 2 diabetes and are planning a pregnancy, seek early guidance from healthcare providers for appropriate advice and medication adjustments.
- Request a referral to a pre-conception clinic or diabetes care team
- Discuss safe contraceptive options with your doctor