Diet-controlled diabetes is a term used to describe a person who has type 2 diabetes that can be managed through careful monitoring of food intake, without the use of medications or insulin. While changes in diet can help to keep diabetes in check, these changes can be very difficult to maintain over long periods of time. Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, are in the first line of therapy recommended for treatment of Type 2 diabetes.
The Basics
In the beginning stages of type 2 diabetes, the body is resistant to the hormone insulin. It may be possible for some people to control their diabetes through careful diet management. The body can also fail to produce enough insulin, resulting in what is known as insulin deficiency. Treatment is needed to keep blood glucose levels in control. Diabetes is a progressive disease, and insulin resistance and insulin deficiency can worsen over time, making it necessary to add medication to the treatment plan.
Recommendations
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends healthy eating habits as a first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes. Even modest weight loss has been shown to help overweight people control diabetes. The ADA recommends medical nutrition therapy with a registered dietitian to help start and maintain a healthy diabetes meal plan. Whether through diet and exercise alone, or with the addition of medication, avoiding the complications of type 2 diabetes depends on keeping blood sugar levels controlled.
Misconceptions
The term "diet-controlled" diabetes does not mean it is less serious than diabetes that requires medication. All diabetes is serious and requires careful monitoring and medical attention to keep it in check. When diet and exercise are not enough to keep type 2 diabetes under control, medication (including oral pills, insulin or other injectable diabetes medicines) is recommended.
Considerations
Diabetes is a serious condition that requires proper medical care. To learn how to best treat diabetes, it is very important to consult a medical provider. Monitoring of blood sugar levels helps you and your doctor to know if your diabetes is under control or not. Always seek the advice of your medical provider when it comes to treating diabetes.
Expert Insight
A diabetes educator can be a helpful member of your diabetes care team. Diabetes educators are health care professionals who have special knowledge and skills to help people learn how to manage their diabetes, including meal planning. To find a diabetes educator near you, see "Find a Diabetes Educator" in the Resources section.
