Receiving a diagnosis of diabetes can be frightening and a bit overwhelming. Many people fear the possibility of having to poke themselves to check their blood and give themselves shots everyday. The good news is that there are many therapies for diabetes.
The therapies for diabetes depend on what type of diabetes you have been diagnosed with. Type I diabetes (insulin dependent) is caused because the pancreas does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced to help the body absorb sugar properly. Type II diabetes (insulin resistant) is caused when the body resists the absorption of insulin.
According to the American Diabetes Association, the therapies for diabetes of both types include limiting the intake of sugar and making necessary changes to your daily diet. They also recommend participating in a regular fitness program and maintaining a healthy weight. If you have been recently diagnosed with diabetes and struggle with being overweight or obese, it is highly recommended that the excess weight be lost.
If you have been diagnosed with type I diabetes, therapies will most likely include monitoring your blood sugar regularly and taking insulin daily.
If you have been diagnosed with type II diabetes, therapies may include monitoring blood sugar daily. Oral medications are often times prescribed for this type of diabetes, as well.
Diabetes Alternative Therapies – A Holistic Approach
Medical doctors typically recommend standard therapies, such as those listed above. Many people diagnosed with diabetes decide to take a holistic approach to treatment.
There are many alternative therapies to treat diabetes. The healthiest way to treat diabetes is by following a low sugar diet that is high in nutrients and low in processed food. It is also important to make sure that your vitamin levels are adequate. If you are deficient in any vitamins, supplementation may be recommended. It is also important to maintain a regular activity program.
It may be necessary to combine traditional diabetes therapies with holistic therapies to keep your diabetes in good control. Type II diabetes can often times be treated by diet and exercise programs alone. However, type I diabetes usually requires regular insulin injections.
Integrating Diabetes Therapies into Your Life
As you can see, there are many therapies for diabetes. If you have recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you probably feel overwhelmed. This feeling is normal and even expected.
Work with your physician to determine which lifestyle changes will help you the most. Initially, you will probably need to check your blood sugar regularly to determine how your body normally reacts before and after meals. Expect to keep a blood sugar log and food log initially. This will help you and your physician determine the best methods of treatment. Remember, small changes can make a huge difference in your health!
