Diabetes is a serious concern these days, especially with the rising rates of obesity and other health concerns, which can increase the risk of diabetes. The most common forms of diabetes are type 1 and type 2, both of which affects how the body uses blood sugar, which can increase the amount of sugar in the blood. Left untreated, diabetes can cause serious, and sometimes irreversible, damage to the body over time, so getting diagnosed and treated as early as possible is important. Fortunately, although diabetes is not curable, there are ways to effectively treat and manage diabetes. If you or a loved one has diabetes, or are concerned about diabetes, these top diabetes treatments can help. Read on to learn more about the top three treatments, so you can talk to your doctor about the treatment options that are right for you.
Top 3 Diabetes Treatment Options
- Insulin
- Oral Medications
- Diet and Exercise
Insulin
A healthy body already produces insulin, which helps control the amount of sugar in the blood. However, individuals with type 1 diabetes lack this hormone, and individuals with type 2 diabetes either lack enough insulin or insulin does not function properly. But with insulin therapy, which can be used in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, fast-acting insulin is administered into the body, often through injections, or with the use of an insulin pump. Your doctor may prescribe one or several insulin injections to be administered throughout the day. But with an insulin pump, a precise amount of insulin is continuously delivered to the body throughout the day via a device roughly the size of a cell phone or baby monitor.
Highlights:
- Insulin may need to be administered throughout the day
- Insulin pumps are convenient but may be uncomfortable
- Works for both type 1 and 2 diabetes
Oral Medications
There are also several oral medications that can help control diabetes. These oral medications, such as Metformin, may be prescribed to individuals who have type 2 diabetes, in order to help control blood sugar levels. These medications work by stimulating the pancreas, which produces insulin, to increase the amount of insulin in the blood. Other medications can also be used to block the release of glucose from the liver or block the actions of the stomach and intestines so that the body’s tissues are more sensitive to insulin and can use it properly. Your doctor will determine which oral medication is right for you.
Highlights:
- Oral medications can perform a variety of functions
- Can decrease or eliminate the need for insulin injections
- Can be used with insulin therapy
Diet and Exercise
Just as important as medications or insulin, diet and exercise is an essential part of a diabetes treatment plan. Losing at little as seven percent of body weight can greatly affect the amount of sugar in the blood. A healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, proteins and vegetables, as well as limited saturated fats, will help keep blood sugar levels regulated. Additionally, physical activity can lower blood sugar with both aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Both walking and weightlifting may be equally important, and should happen for at least 30 minutes per day. It is important, however, for patients with diabetes to drink plenty of fluids when exercising, as they can become easily dehydrated.
Highlights:
- Both walking and weightlifting can help
- Losing weight can lower blood sugar
- Eating healthy foods can control blood sugar levels
Conclusion:
Diabetes is a tremendous concern these days, and some people are more susceptible to developing diabetes than others, especially those with a family history of either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It’s never too late to start taking care of your body with a healthy diet and a regular exercise regimen, whether you have diabetes or not. If you have diabetes, or are concerned about developing diabetes, the top diabetes treatments may be able to help. Talk to your doctor about any of the treatments mentioned above, including changes in diet and exercise, to see which options are best for you.