Type 2 diabetes: Signs and dietary precautions to follow to control the condition

Type 2 diabetes mellitus cases are increasing globally, making it one of the commonest forms of diabetes. It is a chronic condition in which the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or it resists insulin. This condition results in too much sugar circulating the blood stream leading to problems in the circulatory, nervous, and immune systems. Although there is no cure for type 2 diabetes, but it can be managed well by following proper diet and exercise. If still the sugar levels are elevated then medications or insulin therapy under the guidance of a medical practitioner is needed.

Read: The 5 best exercises to build your core muscles

Food containing high sugar and carbohydrates trigger the sugar levels and prove harmful.

Fruits are considered as a healthy option to be consumed as snacks or as a part of a balanced meal. It cannot be denied that they have important nutrients such as fibre but, there are some fruits such as pineapples, raisins, mangoes, cherries , bananas, oranges and figs cause blood sugar level to rise. Similarly starchy vegetables that are rich in carbohydrates such as green peas, carrots, potatoes, beetroot, onions, beans and sweet corn can spike blood sugar.

All carbohydrates get converted into glucose and when people with diabetes consume too many carbs at a time, their blood sugar levels can rise to dangerously high levels. It can also damage the body’s nerves and blood vessels which may lead to heart disease, kidney disease and other serious health issues, therefore artificial trans fats, white bread, rice, pasta, sweetened breakfast cereals, fruit flavoured yogurt, honey, dried fruits, fried food and packaged snack foods should be avoided as it contains large amount of carbohydrates.

1.Whole grains such as whole wheat, brown rice, barley, quinoa and oats

2.Fibrous fruits and vegetables

3.Protein such as lean meats, chicken, fish, eggs, nuts, beans, lentils and tofu

4.Nonfat or low- fat dairy such as milk and yogurt

Along with a proper diet, exercises like fast walking, climbing stairs and strenuous house work or gardening can also help to control blood sugar.

1.Urinating more than usual, especially at night

2.Feeling thirsty all the time

3.Fatigue

4.Weight loss

5.Blurred vision

6.Itching around the penis or vagina or repeatedly getting thrush

7.Problem in feet as wounds take lot of time to heal

Regulated diet in proper portions and physical activity everyday can work wonders to control the level of blood sugar.