Treatment for Diabetes

Overcoming the effects of diabetes is sometimes difficult, but there are many ways to successfully manage this disease. Diabetes is most commonly controlled by a combination of diet, exercise and medication. Different types of the disease warrant different treatments, so it is best to consult a physician before making any lifestyle changes.

Diet

People with mild forms of diabetes can often control complications with diet alone. A healthy diet can help regulate blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Those who are overweight are at a higher risk of experiencing complications, and should set a goal to reach a healthy weight through diet and exercise changes. A diet high in fiber, low in saturated fats and low in sugar is essential to regulating the body. Alcohol use needs extreme moderation and an ideal situation is its complete removal from the diet. In addition, any diet should follow guidelines for calorie intake, serving sizes from each food group and exercise requirements set aside by a dietician or physician.

Medication

If diet and exercise alone cannot control the complications of diabetes, medication is often the next course of treatment. Today, there are several prescription drugs that are approved for the treatment of diabetes. The treatment of type 1 diabetes almost always involves daily injections of insulin. This insulin is usually a combination of both fast and long acting types. Those with type 2 diabetes usually need to lower their blood sugar through the use of sulfonylurea or biguanide.

Although there is currently no cure for any form of diabetes, there are several options that allow people to successfully manage the disease and prevent serious complications. Diet, exercise and medication are usually combined in a program tailored by a physician to each individual's needs.