Diabetes can affect almost all organ systems in your body and can literally cost you a leg. It goes without saying that proper diabetes management is of paramount importance to ensure the proper functioning of your organs and that you will live a long, normal life.

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you must be overwhelmed with the laundry list of medications and all the dos and don’ts. To make it easier for you to digest all of the information, here’s a roundup of the types of diabetes treatment your doctor may recommend to help you take full control of your condition.

Lifestyle Management

Lifestyle management is the cornerstone—yet the most challenging aspect—of diabetes care. To overcome any challenges, you need to work closely with your doctor and focus on maintaining adherence and how you can successfully carry out the following lifestyle tweaks throughout the course of your treatment.

• Healthy eating
• Regular physical activity
• Stress management
• Alcohol avoidance
• Smoking cessation

Medications

Depending on the type of diabetes you have, the following medications may be prescribed.

·      Insulin

Insulin injection is the mainstay of type 1 diabetes management. People with diabetes 2 may also be prescribed with insulin, but it is used in conjunction with lifestyle management.

·      Biguanides (Metformin)

This class of drugs is typically prescribed for overweight clients and when lifestyle management are not entirely effective at managing blood sugar levels.

·      Thiazolidinediones (Actos or Avandia)

This class of medications helps your body process insulin better.

·      High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol-Lowering Medications

Diabetes is a prime risk factor for cardiovascular disease. These medications are, therefore, aimed at lowering the risk of cardiovascular complications in clients living with diabetes.

Alternative Treatments

Holistic medicine is an approach to care that addresses you as a whole person—rather than just treating your disease—and includes all aspects of your lifestyle.

If your doctor employs a holistic approach to treating diabetes, they may recommend the following alternative treatment options to help you better manage your condition:

• Acupuncture

This is a procedure that involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on your skin. Research indicates that acupuncture may help regulate how your pancreas function and your blood sugar levels. A separate clinical study reveals that when combined with metformin, acupuncture may produce a significant effect on glycemic control.

• Biofeedback

This is a mind-body technique that helps you learn how to gain cognizance and control of your bodily functions, such as blood flow, blood pressure, and heart rate. Biofeedback-assisted relaxation has shown to have a positive effect on the blood sugar levels in clients with type 2 diabetes.

·      Dietary Supplements

Several studies suggest that dietary supplements, such as chromium, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vanadium may help treat diabetes. However, you should not take any dietary supplements without telling your doctor, as some of them may interfere with your medications.

·      Plant Foods

There have been some studies that suggest that certain plant foods may help your body process insulin and fight inflammation. Discuss with your doctor how the following plant foods may benefit you.

• Broccoli and other leafy greens
• Buckwheat
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Coffee
• Fenugreek seeds
• Okra
• Sage

Diabetes Management in Weatherford, TX

Diabetes is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to its management. That is to say, you do need a team of specialists to help you ensure an excellent long-term prognosis.

At Alpha Care Wellness Center, Dr. Catherine Oseni—board certified in integrative and functional medicine—will work closely with you and the other medical practitioners in your healthcare team to educate you on therapeutic lifestyle modalities, nutrition, homeopathy, and the safety and effective use of your diabetes medications. Her ultimate goal in this collaboration is to help you live a normal, active, happy life despite your condition.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Catherine Oseni, you may call us at (817) 550-633, or you may use our secure appointment request form.