As a chronic condition that affects over 38 million people in the United States, diabetes is a major public health concern. Unfortunately, if it goes untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including kidney damage, vision loss, heart disease, and stroke. But, there’s another key risk of unaddressed diabetes: a diminished quality of life.
The following diabetes treatments can help preserve and improve your quality of life while preventing long-term complications:
Prescription Diabetes Medications
A range of effective, clinically tested medications exist for diabetes management. Your physician may choose to prescribe medications as part of your treatment plan. Taking these medications as advised can help keep your blood sugar levels steady and improve your overall quality of life with diabetes.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Certain lifestyle adjustments are often recommended for individuals with diabetes, and with good reason! These changes can boost your quality of life by naturally improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels:
- Adopting a low-carb diet that’s rich in vibrant vegetables and lean protein
- Exercising regularly – if you struggle to stick to exercise routines, try to find a new activity that you love, such as dance classes, swimming, rock climbing, or spin classes
- Manage stress through journaling, meditation, yoga, talk therapy, or other strategies. Chronic stress can keep blood sugar levels elevated and increase your risk of diabetes complications.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
For postmenopausal women with diabetes, hormone replacement therapy has been proven to improve glycemic control and significantly boost insulin sensitivity. In addition to benefiting diabetes management, hormone replacement therapy can alleviate menopause symptoms, providing two-fold benefits for women in this stage of life.
If you’re struggling with diabetes management in Tampa Bay, the team at A Place for Wellness is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us today!