Healthy lifestyle choices can help you prevent type 2 diabetes.
Even if diabetes runs in your family, diet and exercise can help
you prevent the disease. And if you’ve already been diagnosed
with diabetes, the same healthy lifestyle choices can help you
prevent potentially serious complications.
on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. For every 1,000 calories
you consume, try to have at least 14 grams of fiber, because
fiber helps control blood sugar levels.
physical activity a day. Take a brisk daily walk. Ride your bike.
Swim laps. If you can’t fit in a long workout, break it up into
smaller sessions spread throughout the day.
of your body weight can reduce the risk of diabetes. To keep your
weight in a healthy range, focus on permanent changes to your
eating and exercise habits. Motivate yourself by remembering
the benefits of losing weight, such as a healthier heart, more
energy and improved self-esteem.
Sometimes medication is an option as well. Metformin
(Glucophage), an oral diabetes medication, may reduce the
risk of type 2 diabetes — but healthy lifestyle choices remain
essential.
