Determining the best diabetes treatment for your diabetic type is crucial for optimal health— patients must use a treatment intended for their specific type of diabetes to maintain a balanced insulin level. Not only should a treatment on be based on type, but the patient’s diet as well.
There are two types of diabetes—type I and type II.
Type I diabetics should be on a diabetic diet, instructed to exercise regularly, and strictly follow their insulin regimen. Type II diabetics should first be aided in a weight loss regimen, as this can reverse their diabetes altogether. Ultimately, this is the best diabetes treatment—virtually the cure for diabetes.
Type II diabetics may also be put on an oral medication when diet and exercise fail to lower blood sugar. This should only be considered if the benefits outweigh the risks—many of these medications have undesirable side effects when taken long term. For instance, Avandia has been known to cause heart attack and heart failure. Of course diabetes left untreated may also lead to either of these complications, which is why a physician should weigh out whether or not the benefits of an oral medication could outweigh the risks.
Type II diabetics should be instructed to exercise every day if possible, but at least three to four times a week. Each exercise session should be between 20 – 40 minutes long (including five to ten minutes of warm-up and stretching, followed by 30-35 minutes of aerobic activity). To prevent dehydration, they should also be taught to drink plenty of water.
The best diet for diabetes treatment is low in fat and cholesterol. Patients should be given a caloric limit—a number dependent on the current weight and the desired weight loss for the patient. Ideally, patients should avoid sugars as well. Their caloric limit should be evenly divided into three meals per day. This can prevent insulin spikes and drops.
Another successful method for diabetes management is blood sugar monitoring. A blood sugar monitor can be bought at any local drugstore—just like a blood pressure monitor. The glucose monitor works by testing a sample of blood for glucose levels. It then reports the number on the screen. The disadvantage to this method is that every time a patient tests, they must prick their finger for blood. This can be an annoyance, especially if the patient is already using insulin injections.
Blood sugar levels should be kept between 70 and 120mg/dl before meals and below 140 mg/dl two hours after a meal. Most prescription insurance companies will pay for a blood sugar monitor, if the patient is diabetic. This is a great preventative measure—by monitoring glucose levels, patients can determine how much insulin to use. This can help stabilize a patient’s blood sugar levels.
In short, patients will be able to control their blood sugar levels easier if they stay on top of their health. This means exercising, eating well, and taking medication as prescribed. It is possible for diabetics to maintain a good quality of life by taking control of their health. Health management and medication compliance is the most reliable diabetes treatment.
