Diabetes is a chronic condition that also increases the susceptibility to other disorders. It has been estimated that diabetic people are at a 3-4 fold higher risk of hospitalization than those non-diabetic people. Therefore, medications are not sufficient for managing the disorder, and instead requires a holistic plan.
In addition to blood glucose monitoring and control, a part of diabetes management also deals with the advancing technology to introduce more effective therapeutic interventions. At the forefront of these innovations is stem cell therapy. Stem cells are able to regenerate and repair insulin-producing beta islet cells, thereby regulating natural insulin production. This blog outlines the different management approaches and sheds light on the potential of stem cell therapy.
Diet: Dietary intake is a key component of weight loss. A diet should aim at controlling blood glucose and lipid levels while also fulfilling the nutritional requirements of a person. High salt intake should be avoided for people who have hypertension. It is advised to time the meals according to medications.
Exercise: Physical activity also promotes weight reduction and normal glycemic levels. Exercise is beneficial for hypertension and improving insulin sensitivity. Individuals doing regular exercise, such as aerobic activity or resistance training, have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular complications.
Avoid Smoking: Smokers have a 30-40% increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Chemicals in smoke increase oxidative stress and inflammation as well as correlate with higher lipid levels. Studies have exhibited that smoking worsens hyperglycemia and related complications, whereas quitting the habit is beneficial for the disorder.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress are some of the aspects of managing the disorder.
In addition to blood glucose monitoring and control, a part of diabetes management also deals with the advancing technology to introduce more effective therapeutic interventions. At the forefront of these innovations is stem cell therapy. Stem cells are able to regenerate and repair insulin-producing beta islet cells, thereby regulating natural insulin production. This blog outlines the different management approaches and sheds light on the potential of stem cell therapy.
Why is diabetes management crucial?
High blood glucose (sugar) or hyperglycemia is the hallmark of diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, it occurs due to the destruction of beta islets by the immune system, whereas the body becomes resistant to insulin in Type 2 Diabetes. Since insulin is responsible for the cellular uptake of glucose, its absence or resistance leads to elevated glucose levels in the blood. The glucose in blood, in turn, begins accumulating in blood vessels, disrupting blood flow and damaging organs. Hyperglycemia also triggers oxidative stress and inflammation that can cause injury to the organs. Therefore, diabetic people are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disorders, retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy.Why Weight Loss in Diabetes is Important?
Several studies have concluded that obese people have a higher tendency to develop insulin resistance. Moreover, obesity also augments inflammation and oxidative stress. Fat deposition in vessels is often associated with cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, obesity adds to the complications that arise from hyperglycemia. It necessitates losing weight for improved treatment outcomes. Many research studies have reported that reducing weight has led to control of blood glucose levels, by alleviating insulin resistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the following ways to achieve weight loss. These interventions can be tailored based on individual requirements and characteristics.Diet: Dietary intake is a key component of weight loss. A diet should aim at controlling blood glucose and lipid levels while also fulfilling the nutritional requirements of a person. High salt intake should be avoided for people who have hypertension. It is advised to time the meals according to medications.
Exercise: Physical activity also promotes weight reduction and normal glycemic levels. Exercise is beneficial for hypertension and improving insulin sensitivity. Individuals doing regular exercise, such as aerobic activity or resistance training, have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular complications.
Different Aspects of Diabetes Management
Glucose Monitoring: The manufacture of glucose monitoring devices that are easy to use and are available at home has made regular glucose estimation much easier. Regular measurement of levels of HbA1c, blood glucose, and lipids can help in disease assessment for dose optimization, and integrating more interventions for effective management. Moreover, regular blood pressure check-ups, eye exams, and kidney tests are also essential to detect and timely treat diabetes-related complications.Avoid Smoking: Smokers have a 30-40% increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Chemicals in smoke increase oxidative stress and inflammation as well as correlate with higher lipid levels. Studies have exhibited that smoking worsens hyperglycemia and related complications, whereas quitting the habit is beneficial for the disorder.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress are some of the aspects of managing the disorder.