Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious health complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available to help manage and even reverse the effects of type 2 diabetes. This article will discuss the type 2 diabetes treatment guidelines for 2021.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the body use and store sugar. When the body’s cells are resistant to the effects of insulin, the pancreas must produce more insulin to compensate. Over time, the pancreas may not be able to keep up, leading to high levels of sugar in the blood. This can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness.
Type 2 Diabetes Treatment Guidelines 2021
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has released its updated treatment guidelines for type 2 diabetes for 2021. The guidelines recommend that people with type 2 diabetes:
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is low in fat, sodium, and added sugars.
- Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Take medications as prescribed by their doctor.
- Monitor their blood sugar levels regularly.
- Check their feet regularly for signs of infection.
- See their doctor regularly for checkups and lab tests.
In addition to these guidelines, the ADA recommends that people with type 2 diabetes speak to their doctor about lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake. These changes can help to reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Medications for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment
Medications are a key component of type 2 diabetes treatment. These drugs work by helping the body use and store sugar or by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. Common medications used to treat type 2 diabetes include:
- Metformin: This is the most commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes. It works by helping the body use and store sugar more effectively.
- Sulfonylureas: These drugs work by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin. However, long-term use of sulfonylureas can lead to low blood sugar levels.
- Thiazolidinediones: These medications work by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin. However, long-term use can lead to weight gain, fluid retention, and heart failure.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists: These drugs work by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin and reduce the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
- DPP-4 inhibitors: These drugs work by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin and reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
- SGLT2 inhibitors: These drugs work by helping the body excrete excess sugar through the urine.
It is important to note that these medications may have side effects and may interact with other medications. It is important to speak to your doctor before starting any type of medication.
Alternative Treatments for Type 2 Diabetes
In addition to medications, there are a number of alternative treatments for type 2 diabetes. These treatments can help to control blood sugar levels and can potentially reverse the effects of diabetes. Common alternative treatments include:
- Dietary changes: Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is low in fat, sodium, and added sugars can help to control blood sugar levels. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help to keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help to control blood sugar levels.
- Weight loss: Losing weight can help to reduce the body’s resistance to insulin and can help to improve blood sugar control.
- Herbal supplements: Certain herbs, such as cinnamon, can help to lower blood sugar levels. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking any supplements.
- Stress management: Stress can cause the body to release hormones that can lead to high blood sugar levels. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help to reduce stress and improve blood sugar control.
Conclusion
Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that can lead to serious health complications. Fortunately, there are a number of treatments available to help manage and even reverse the effects of diabetes. The American Diabetes Association has released its updated treatment guidelines for 2021, which include eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medications as prescribed by a doctor. In addition to these guidelines, there are a number of alternative treatments, such as dietary changes, exercise, weight loss, and herbal supplements, that can help to control blood sugar levels. It is important to speak to your doctor before starting any type of treatment.
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