While most of us can start a diet plan with little worry beyond surviving without junk food, diabetics face special concerns. Diabetes is caused when the body does not properly process sugar, or glucose. The body is unable to convert it into fuel, and it builds up in the bloodstream. Eventually, it can lead to blindness, amputation, nerve damage, stroke and kidney failure, among other things.
With weight loss, diabetics can reduce blood pressure, lighten stress on their joints, lower blood sugar and improve cholesterol. But there are a few things diabetics should consider before attempting to lose weight.
Determine Your Goals
Ask yourself some questions, such as: 1) How much weight do I want to lose? 2) Is that goal attainable or unrealistic? 3) Will that put me in the proper weight class for my bone structure and height? 4) Does my doctor agree that I need to lose this weight? 5) Am I working to eradicate type 2 diabetes by controlling my weight?
You should have clear goals in mind before starting a weight loss program; otherwise, you can set yourself up for failure with no clear vision of what you hope to attain.
Talk to Your Doctor
It is important to talk to your doctor about your insulin dosage. Untreated diabetes causes increased hunger, which usually leads to the diabetic eating more. But because the body is not storing food properly, weight loss usually occurs. Once insulin is introduced and blood sugar levels are stabilized, weight loss stops; but the diabetic continues to take in the same amount of calories, leading to weight gain. Additionally, different types of insulin can lead to greater weight gain. And as you lose weight, your insulin dosage will need to be adjusted. Therefore, your doctor must be working with you as you strive to lose weight.
Ask for a Referral to a Dietitian
Diabetics need to keep their blood-sugar levels even throughout the day, and frequent, small meals are usually required to do so. A combination of foods is also necessary, as types of food digest at different rates. Sugars digest quickly, for example, while protein can take up to four hours. A dietitian can help you determine your caloric needs, which probably means eating less than you do currently, and devise a meal plan that will work with your type of diabetes and be appealing to your taste buds.
Exercise the Right Way
Exercise is necessary to control weight. In addition to burning calories, it lowers stress, helps the body process insulin and improves circulation; this is especially important, as diabetics can have a small blister turn into an open sore, which can lead to amputation. Additionally, building muscle burns fat and helps the body store glucose properly.
But you can't suddenly train for a marathon; you must start slowly. Start with low-impact activities, such as biking, walking or swimming. Work up to four to five times a week, exercising from 30 to 60 minutes. And remember to have a small snack after exercising to control sudden changes in blood sugar.
Tags: weight loss, blood sugar, have small, helps body, insulin dosage, lose weight, type diabetes