Diabetes Treatment Guidelines Nz

Diabetes, a lifelong condition that affects how the body processes blood glucose, is a major health concern in New Zealand. According to Diabetes New Zealand, approximately 260,000 people in New Zealand have been diagnosed with diabetes, and an estimated 100,000 people have diabetes but are undiagnosed. With the prevalence of diabetes in New Zealand, it is important to understand the diabetes treatment guidelines for New Zealand.

Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the body does not produce enough insulin and requires daily insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes is where the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use insulin efficiently. Treatment for Type 2 diabetes usually involves lifestyle modifications such as healthy eating, physical activity, and medications.

Diabetes Treatment Guidelines NZ

The Ministry of Health recommends a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication to manage diabetes. These modifications include healthy eating, physical activity, smoking cessation, and maintaining a healthy weight. The medications used to treat diabetes include oral antidiabetic drugs, insulin, and other injectable medications. Depending on the type of diabetes and the severity of the condition, different medications may be prescribed.

Healthy Eating Guidelines

Eating a healthy diet is essential for managing diabetes. The Ministry of Health recommends following a healthy eating plan that is low in saturated fat, sugar, and salt. Eating a variety of foods from all the food groups is important for managing diabetes. Fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products, lean meats, and fish are all important components of a healthy diabetes diet.

Physical Activity Guidelines

Physical activity is essential for managing diabetes. The Ministry of Health recommends that people with diabetes should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most days. Some examples of moderate intensity physical activity include brisk walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling. Strength training can also be beneficial for people with diabetes as it can help improve blood glucose control.

Smoking Cessation

Smoking is not only harmful to your general health, but it can also have a negative effect on your diabetes. Smoking can increase your risk of developing complications such as heart disease, stroke, and nerve damage. The Ministry of Health recommends that people with diabetes should quit smoking to reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is important for managing diabetes. Having excess body fat can make it harder to control blood glucose levels and can increase the risk of developing complications. The Ministry of Health recommends that people with diabetes should aim to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through healthy eating and physical activity. Weight loss surgery may be an option for some people with diabetes.

Conclusion

The diabetes treatment guidelines for New Zealand are designed to help people with diabetes manage their condition. Eating a healthy diet, being physically active, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are all recommended for people with diabetes. It is important to speak to your doctor or healthcare professional for advice on how to best manage your diabetes.

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