(NewsNation) — Diabetes, a chronic health condition marked by high blood sugar levels and insufficient insulin, can be managed through lifestyle and diet choices.
Although Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder and cannot be reversed, the majority of diabetes diagnoses are for Type 2, which can be reversed.
Lifestyle and genetic factors can lead to Type 2 diabetes, which can be prevented in most cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Risk factors for Type 2 include being overweight, having a family history, not getting enough exercise and being 45 years or older.
Despite the genetic component, doctors say managing a healthy diet and lifestyle can reverse or prevent Type 2 diabetes. In addition to eating healthy, getting exercise and avoiding smoking, the National Institutes of Health recommends patients:
- Monitor blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels at home
- Get 7-8 hours of sleep
- Take care of your mental health
- Take medicine as prescribed
- Check urine for ketones
- Log your primary care checkups to track progress
- Build your network of health care specialists
Additional advice from Abbott, a medical technology device company, includes:
- Find activities to help relax, as stress can cause blood sugar to rise
- Only drink alcohol in moderation
- Maintain oral hygiene, as diabetes increases gum disease risk
- Plan ahead for travel with medication
- Use sweetener substitutes in place of sugar
You can find more information about diabetes on the CDC website.