Type 2 diabetes, a metabolic disorder, is characterized by high blood sugar levels. This condition arises from insufficient insulin secretion or insulin resistance in the body. It accounts for about 90% of all diabetes types and is linked to risk factors such as overweight, obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.

While type 2 diabetes cannot be completely cured, lifestyle changes are crucial for managing the condition and preventing complications. These changes encompass adopting a healthy, plant-based diet, engaging in regular exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, managing stress, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco.

Dietary adjustments play a key role in blood sugar control. It is advisable to limit processed meats, fried foods, sugary dishes, and artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners can impact gut microbiota and blood sugar regulation, making diabetes more challenging to manage.

Patients have their blood sugar measured at Tam Anh General Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

Patients have their blood sugar measured at Tam Anh General Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

Weight and body mass index (BMI) significantly influence blood sugar levels. Individuals with a high BMI or who are overweight often exhibit increased levels of substances like glycerol, hormones, and cytokines, which contribute to insulin resistance. Therefore, maintaining your weight and BMI within the recommended range (18,5-22,9) is crucial for diabetes management.

Furthermore, effective management of underlying conditions such as liver, kidney, or heart disease is essential. Poorly managed co-existing conditions can increase insulin resistance, disrupt sugar metabolism, and lead to sudden fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

Dr. Ha Dinh Khai

Department of Endocrinology - Diabetes

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi

Readers can send questions about endocrine diseases here for doctors to answer.