Approximately 85% of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight. In fact, type 2 diabetes and obesity are closely linked: If your pancreas has to keep working hard in order to produce enough insulin to regulate your blood sugar levels, this overexertion by the pancreas can contribute to developing type 2 diabetes.
The disease is largely influenced by your diet and lifestyle. By making certain changes, your blood sugar becomes manageable and you can prevent the progression of your type 2 diabetes and other negative outcomes, such as the amputation of a toe, foot, or leg.
This is why weight management is so important if you have type 2 diabetes. It is also possible for prediabetics to fend off developing diabetes by keeping your weight down to an optimum level.
How Can I Manage My Weight with Diabetes?
Weight management should be encouraged in prediabetics and type 2 diabetics. There are common culprits to weight gain, including an inactive lifestyle, lack of exercise, and the consumption of a high-calorie diet rich in sugar and carbohydrates. Addressing these issues can help with the effective management of blood sugar levels and weight loss.
You can gain many benefits from losing weight even if you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Here are a few ideas:
Eat Breakfast
Missing breakfast can lead to frequent snacking and overeating throughout the day. Diabetic meal plans always include breakfast, usually comprising whole wheat cereal or oats (free of sugar), milk, egg whites, and a piece of fruit – such as a banana for potassium. This combination can help you feel full longer and can prevent hunger pangs before lunchtime.
Skipping any meal is, ironically, a surefire way to jeopardize your weight loss goals. This is because missing meals forces your body to hold onto your stored fat reserves rather than burning it off.
Exercise
Physical activity such as walking, swimming, and dancing can help you lose weight and manage your diabetes. Combine that with a lower calorie intake, and you should notice results within a few weeks. Even something as simple as walking around the block every day can make a big difference in your weight and overall health.
Eat Fewer Calories
When you see your physician, ask about the number of calories that you should be consuming per day. Depending on your age, weight, height, body type, and lifestyle, your doctor will be able to give you a reasonable recommendation for your daily caloric intake.
Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Sugary sodas, juices, cakes, candies, and bread can wreak havoc on your diet. Avoid junk foods with empty calories that provide no nutritional value. Let that standard be your guide when you decide on what to eat throughout the day.
With type 2 diabetes, you need to eliminate or greatly reduce these non-nutritious foods from your diet. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fatty fish, lean meats, and nuts are what are good for you.
Diabetes Weight Management Doctor in Frisco
Board-certified physician Dr. Rani Anbarasu can provide you the highly individualized care you deserve. She specializes in helping patients with diabetes to manage their disease, including weight loss and medicinal treatments.
To schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling us at (469) 389-5251 or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you get in better shape so you can feel great about yourself!
