Stay healthy with a type 2 diabetes self management plan.

By: John Richmond

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and accounts for over 90 percent of all cases. This is a disease in which the body does not make or properly use insulin, which is a hormone that helps convert sugar, starches and other foods into energy. Type 2 starts as insulin resistance, which occurs when the cells do not use insulin the way they should. As the body needs more and more insulin, the pancreas usually stops producing it. The cause is not yet known but genetics and environmental factors such as being overweight and having a sedentary lifestyle are believed to play a role. A type 2 diabetes self management plan is a major component of fighting this disease.

Classes are available through diabetes self management programs that provide information about type 2 diabetes and teach the skills necessary to avoid the many complications of the disease. These classes teach the patient how to monitor glucose, modify their diets, develop exercise regimens, how to self-inject insulin and many other things that are necessary for staying healthy and strong.

Daily injections of insulin by syringe is for some the most difficult part of type 2 diabetes self management. A medical device called an insulin pump is a good alternative. This small battery operated pump, worn on the waist, has a reservoir that contains insulin which is automatically injected into the body by way of a catheter imbedded under the skin. The pump is easily detached for bathing or showering and is easily adjustable when insulin doses need to be changed.

The American Diabetes Association has estimated that about 90 percent of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight when they are first diagnosed. Essential to a good type 2 diabetes self management plan are diet, exercise and keeping weight under control.

Control of blood sugar is the key in the avoiding the complications of type 2 diabetes. When those with diabetes can do this, they are more likely to feel better and maintain their health. Two kinds of management devices are used. Blood glucose meters and other diabetes management tests. Glucose meters aid in checking blood sugar at home, school, work, or wherever they may be. Additional urine and blood tests show changes in diabetes management and help signal complications.

Moderating food intake is essential to controlling type 2 diabetes. A person with the disease can continue to eat their favorite foods if portions are controlled. Eating foods high in nutrition with lots of vegetables and fruit is necessary. Diabetes self management programs have dietitians on staff that can assist in developing a plan that works for each individual.

Exercise can help control your weight and lower your blood sugar. It also decreases your risk of heart disease, a condition that is common in those who have diabetes. Exercise can also make you healthier in general and improve your outlook. Type 2 diabetes self management programs have exercise professionals who can assist in creating a plan that's suited to each patient's needs.

It may sound strange but developing diabetes has actually helped some people become healthier. By sticking to their self management plan they are no longer obese, enjoy the many health benefits of exercise and eat a healthy diet. Type 2 diabetes self management is largely about doing many of the things that we all should be doing anyway. So let's do it.

Article Source: http://www.retirementlivingarticledirectory.com

A comprehensive type 2 diabetes self management plan is necessary for controlling type 2 diabetes. The author, John Richmond, has written numerous articles about diabetes and they can be found at www.YourDiabetesInfo.com.

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