Lifestyle Modification Therapy in Diabetes Disease: A Review Article

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia) resulting from disturbances in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. Insulin is a hormone produced by pancreatic beta cells, which is needed to utilize glucose from digested food. Comprehensive care is taken to treat patients with either prediabetes or diabetes. Diabetes management includes lifestyle interventions along with pharmacologic therapy and routine blood glucose monitoring. So that a decrease in blood glucose can occur and can be stable for a long time. Discussion:Lifestyle modification is an economical treatment that saves costs to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. On the other hand, nutritional management provided by a dietitian is also recommended. Moderate weight loss goals are an important component of diabetes prevention and treatment, as large body weight can increase blood glucose levels, and can also have an increasing impact on blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Weight loss can be achieved through a balanced diet, with total control of calories and free carbohydrates. However, for diabetic patients following a low-carbohydrate diet, they should be informed about possible side effects such as hypoglycemia, headaches and constipation. Other studies have suggested the consumption of complex dietary fiber and whole grains to improve blood sugar control. Greater adherence to diet combined with light physical activity was associated with a lower likelihood of diabetes after adjusting for various factors. Conclusion:Lifestyle modification is a fairly cost-effective treatment to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes, with a risk reduction of about 58% in 3 years. It is strongly recommended by the ADA that patients with IGT, IFG or HbA1C levels of 5.7-6.4% be counseled on lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. On the other hand, nutritional management provided by a dietitian is also recommended.