The facts
Over 1 million Australians have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes
Each day, 125 Australians are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes significantly contributes to blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and lower limb amputation
Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include low physical activity levels, poor diet and being overweight or obese
Improving diet and lifestyle habits such as regular exercise has been shown to be a cornerstone in effectively managing Type 2 Diabetes.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
A chronic condition characterised by insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels
With Type 2 Diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce enough insulin, or the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces
Insulin acts like a key, unlocking the cells in our so they can uptake sugar from the blood to be used as energy.
Insufficient or ineffective insulin results in HIGH blood sugar that over time can damage nerves, blood vessels and organs.
Complications associated with elevated blood sugar levels and Type 2 Diabetes: eye problems, foot problems, heart attack, stroke, cancer and dementia.
Dietitian and Diabetes.
Dietitians play a pivotal role in supporting individuals with Type 2 Diabetes by providing specialised expertise in nutrition tailored to their unique needs.
From crafting personalised meal plans to offering education on carbohydrate counting and portion control, dietitians empower patients to make informed dietary choices that support blood sugar management and overall health. By assessing factors such as weight, lifestyle, taste preferences, and medical history, they create sustainable nutrition plans that not only address diabetes management but also promote long-term well-being.
Lifestyle interventions
There is a long history of lifestyle interventions proving effective in managing Type 2 Diabetes and reducing blood sugar levels. Common factors contributing to successful interventions include:
Diet
Mediterranean and low carbohydrate diets have work well in reducing blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes. The Mediterranean diet is an dietary pattern emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish, poultry, nuts and legumes, while limiting processed foods.
The low-carb diet is characterized by a reduction in carbohydrate intake, promoting higher consumption of protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables, with the aim of controlling blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. A common feature of these two diets is their emphasis on wholefoods and elimination of sugar sweetened beverages and processed foods high in sugar and refine carbohydrates.
Physical activity
Exercise has proven to be beneficial in managing blood glucose levels for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes. Recommendations for people with Type 2 Diabetes include daily exercise lasting a minimum of 30 minutes. These exercise routines should include a combination of resistance training, such as weightlifting, and aerobic exercises like walking, running, or other forms of cardio.
Weight Loss
Achieving a weight loss of 5-10% of your body weight has been demonstrated to markedly reduce blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 Diabetes. Following a nutrition and exercise program is an effective approach to achieving weight loss goals and improving overall health.
Want to find out more?
Ready to take control of your type 2 diabetes journey? Don't hesitate to reach out to our team at GP+S and book your appointment with our Accredited Practising Dietitian. With personalised guidance and support, you can make meaningful changes to your diet and lifestyle, improving your blood sugar levels and overall health.
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