Type 2 diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, it can lead to various complications, including nerve damage, cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and vision loss.

However, these complications can be prevented or delayed by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Here are ten habits that can help you prevent type 2 diabetes complications:.

1. Follow a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is crucial for managing blood sugar levels and preventing type 2 diabetes complications. You should focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that are low in saturated fat, sugar, and salt.

Your diet should include plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources, like fish, poultry, and beans. Also, limit your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and desserts to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

2. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is critical for managing type 2 diabetes and preventing complications. Physical activity can help you control your blood sugar levels, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and maintain a healthy weight.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or dancing. Also, include strength training exercises at least two days a week to build muscle and improve your metabolism.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its complications. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for preventing health problems. A healthy BMI range is between 18.5 and 24.9.

Adopt a healthy diet and lifestyle habits, like regular exercise, to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and its complications. Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood sugar levels, and impairs insulin sensitivity.

Quitting smoking can improve your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications. Seek help from your doctor or support groups to quit smoking successfully.

5. Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels

Regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels can help you manage diabetes and prevent complications. You can measure your blood sugar levels at home using a blood glucose meter.

Your doctor can also perform blood tests to measure your HbA1c levels, which indicate your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. Aim for a target blood sugar range recommended by your doctor, and consult them if you notice any changes or fluctuations in your blood sugar levels.

6. Manage Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels

High blood pressure and cholesterol levels can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly, and follow your doctor’s recommendations to manage them. You can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels by adopting a healthy lifestyle, losing weight, and taking medications if necessary.

7. Get Regular Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your doctor can help you detect and prevent type 2 diabetes complications early.

Your doctor may perform various tests and screenings, such as eye exams, foot exams, kidney function tests, and cardiovascular assessments, to monitor your health and detect any problems. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for regular check-ups and screenings.

8. Manage Stress

Stress can affect your blood sugar levels and exacerbate diabetes complications. Learning to manage stress through relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing, can help you maintain optimal health.

Also, try to avoid stressful situations when possible and develop healthy coping skills, such as exercise or social support, to manage stress effectively.

9. Protect Your Feet

Diabetes can cause nerve damage and circulation problems that increase your risk of foot problems, such as wounds, infections, or ulcers. To prevent foot complications, check your feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, or redness.

Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid walking barefoot or wearing tight shoes. Also, see a podiatrist regularly for foot care, and seek medical attention immediately if you notice any foot problems.

10. Take Medications as Prescribed

If your doctor prescribes medication to manage your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, or cholesterol, take them as directed. Skipping or adjusting medication doses without your doctor’s approval can lead to complications.

Also, report any negative side effects or concerns to your doctor promptly to prevent any adverse effects.

Conclusion

Preventing type 2 diabetes complications requires adopting healthy lifestyle habits, like following a healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, monitoring blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, getting regular check-ups, managing stress, protecting feet, and taking medications as prescribed. These habits can help you manage diabetes effectively, prevent complications, and improve your quality of life.