Healthy Habits That Can Avoid Type 2 Diabetes Complications. Have You Done Them?
Type 2 diabetes is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to properly manage blood sugar levels, either due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. Although more common in adults, type 2 diabetes is now increasingly being found in children and adolescents. If left untreated, this condition can lead to a variety of serious complications that affect overall health.
You may start to notice some early symptoms, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination at night, or persistent hunger. In addition, wounds that are slow to heal, unnatural weight loss, to blurred vision, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, feeling very tired, and experiencing fungal infections. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to prevent this condition from getting worse and avoid more dangerous complications.
Type 2 diabetes can develop slowly, but if not treated properly, the complications can be very serious and even life threatening. High blood sugar levels in the body can cause various health problems that damage vital organs. Some complications that can arise from type 2 diabetes include :
- Stroke
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Heart disease, including narrowing and hardening of the arteries
- Problems with the feet, such as nerve damage that can lead to amputation
- Neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Eye damage (retinopathy)
- Kidney damage
- Ketoacidosis, which causes the blood to become acidic due to excessive fat breakdown.
- Hyperglycemic non ketotic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHNS) or diabetic coma
To avoid these complications, it is very important to keep blood sugar levels stable by implementing a healthy lifestyle. One of the first steps that can be taken is to improve diet, choose foods that are good for diabetics and avoid foods that can worsen the condition.
The right foods play a vital role in managing type 2 diabetes, as they can affect blood sugar levels and overall health. Controlling the consumption of the right foods can help keep blood sugar levels stable, while the wrong foods can actually worsen the condition. Here are some types of foods that are good and those that should be avoided by people with type 2 diabetes :
1. Vegetables
Vegetables are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for the body. There are two types of vegetables to consider, namely starchy and non starchy vegetables. Non starchy vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and tomatoes have lower natural sugar content, so they are more recommended for diabetics. Meanwhile, vegetables such as potatoes, corn, and pumpkins that contain starch are also good, but it is better to consume them in moderate amounts.
2. Legumes
Legumes, such as beans and peas, are rich in fiber and protein, which help control blood sugar levels. They also help you feel fuller for longer and can help you manage diabetes effectively.
3. Whole grains
Whole grains such as whole wheat, brown rice, and oats are great for people with diabetes. Unlike refined grains, whole grains are rich in fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugar into the blood. It's best to avoid foods that use refined grains such as white pasta and bread, as they can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar because they are processed in a way that removes most of the fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
4. Fruits
Whole fruits are a healthy choice, as they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The fiber in fruit slows the digestion of natural sugars, preventing blood sugar spikes. However, it is important to avoid fruits that contain added sugar, such as dried fruit or fruit jams, which can raise blood sugar levels quickly.
5. Dairy products
Low-fat dairy products are a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamins for people with diabetes. Choose low fat milk or healthier milk alternatives such as soy or almond milk. Avoid dairy products that are high in saturated fat and added sugar, especially those found in fast foods.
6. Nuts
Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, are a healthy choice for people with diabetes. Nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which not only help keep blood sugar levels stable but also keep you feeling fuller for longer. It's best to choose whole nuts without added salt or preservatives.
By making wise food choices, people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugar levels and prevent more serious complications. Replacing foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates with healthier options is an important step in maintaining a healthy body.
Nuts like cashews, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds are the best choices to maintain a healthy body. Make sure to choose nuts without added sugar or salt to get the maximum benefits. Controlling stable blood sugar levels is the main step in preventing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and regularly monitoring blood sugar levels will help maintain overall health.
To help you monitor your blood sugar levels at home, a glucometer can be a very useful tool. You can buy a glucometer and various other health products easily at The Kingdom Shop and can click the following Glucose Test to find out the explanation of the product. This online store offers quality health tools and 100% original, ready to ship throughout Indonesia with reliable shipping.