Diabetes management is a lifelong process that involves a combination of strategies aimed at keeping blood sugar levels as close to the target range as possible and preventing complications. Treatment options vary depending on the type of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes: The cornerstone of treatment is insulin therapy. This involves taking insulin through injections or an insulin pump multiple times a day to replace the insulin the body isn't producing. Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential to adjust insulin doses. Lifestyle management, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, is also important.
Type 2 Diabetes: Management typically involves a multi-pronged approach:
Lifestyle Modifications: This is often the first and most crucial step. It includes adopting a healthy eating plan (focused on whole foods, portion control, and limiting sugary and processed foods), engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress.
Oral Medications: Several classes of oral medications are available to help lower blood sugar in various ways, such as increasing insulin sensitivity, stimulating insulin production, or reducing glucose absorption.
Injectable Medications (Non-Insulin): These include GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, which help lower blood sugar and may also offer cardiovascular and kidney benefits.
Insulin Therapy: Many people with type 2 diabetes eventually need insulin injections to achieve adequate blood sugar control as their body's insulin production declines over time.
Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) using a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) helps individuals understand how their blood sugar levels respond to food, activity, and medications.
Gestational Diabetes: Management focuses on achieving and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels during pregnancy through dietary changes, regular exercise, and, if needed, insulin or oral medications that are safe for pregnancy.
Regular checkups with your healthcare team, including doctors, diabetes educators, and dietitians, are vital for ongoing management and adjustments to your treatment plan.