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The greatest thing about the most popular diabetic treatment plan
is that if you stick to it and work at it, oral medications can be
avoided. Although there are differing opinions on diet and exercise,
most experts agree that a change in diet and an increase in activity
are the best way to control blood sugar levels and that postponing
the use of meds is advantageous. Lifestyle change is less expensive
and there is virtually no risk of side effects when professional
advice is followed.
Exercise is definitely necessary in any diabetic treatment plan.
Not only does it help your body to use the insulin it produces, it
strengthens the heart and improves blood flow. At least one study
has shown that exercise is more effective in decreasing insulin
resistance than one of the oral medications routinely prescribed for
diabetes treatment. And if weight loss is suggested, exercise is
necessary to burn calories.
The most popular dietary plan is the one suggested by the
American Diabetes Association and is based on the diabetic food
pyramid. This pyramid has a base of starches, grains and cereals,
mostly carbohydrates. Vegetables and fruits come next, and again,
the fruits are mostly carbs. The key to eating these carbs is
balancing them throughout the day, dividing them equally into 3
meals and 2 or 3 snacks. Keeping glucose levels is the goal of this
diabetic treatment.
One of the most dangerous aspects of diabetes is the highs and
lows that occur in the bloodstream. These swings are what cause much
of the damage that results from having diabetes. Keeping your food
intake balanced should keep your blood glucose levels maintained at
a normal level. It is also helpful to avoid foods that are high in
sugar, fatty foods and alcoholic beverages. This is not to say these
must be cut out completely; but they must be enjoyed in moderation.
This diabetic treatment plan is the first choice of most doctors
and health care professionals. They will try to keep their patients
off oral medications as long as possible and let their bodies
control the disease.
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