How can people with type 2 diabetes find reliable information and support online. Which blogs offer the best advice for managing blood sugar and living well with diabetes. Where can you connect with others facing similar challenges.

The Importance of Online Support for Type 2 Diabetes Management

Living with type 2 diabetes presents unique challenges that can feel overwhelming at times. Having access to accurate information and a supportive community is crucial for successfully managing the condition. Online diabetes blogs and social media accounts have emerged as valuable resources, offering credible advice, motivation, and a sense of connection for those navigating life with type 2 diabetes.

Why is online support so beneficial for people with diabetes? Research indicates that engaging with diabetes online communities (DOCs) can lead to improved health outcomes. A review of 47 studies published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that participation in DOCs was associated with:

• Increased likelihood of developing diabetes-friendly habits
• Better adherence to medication and blood sugar monitoring
• Neutral or improved A1C levels

Additionally, online support has become even more vital during the COVID-19 pandemic. People with diabetes face higher risks from the virus, and pandemic-related stress can impact blood sugar management. A study published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care revealed that diabetics reporting more difficulty controlling blood sugar during lockdowns also experienced higher stress levels.

Reversing T2D: Combining Nutrition and Exercise Advice

One standout blog in the diabetes online community is Reversing T2D, run by registered dietitian Diana Licalzi and exercise physiologist Jose Tejero. Their approach focuses on using plant-based nutrition and physical activity to manage and potentially reverse type 2 diabetes progression.

What makes Reversing T2D unique? The blog combines expertise in both diet and exercise, providing a holistic approach to diabetes management. With over 157,000 TikTok followers and 27,200 Instagram followers, Licalzi and Tejero have built a substantial community around their evidence-based advice.

Key blog posts to explore on Reversing T2D include:

• “The Effects of Plant-Based Diets on Blood Sugar & Type 2 Diabetes” – An in-depth look at current research
• “How Insulin Resistance Leads to Type 2 Diabetes” – A clear explanation of diabetes pathophysiology

While the blog advocates strongly for a plant-based diet, it’s worth noting that the American Diabetes Association recognizes several eating plans as beneficial for diabetes management, including low-carbohydrate, Mediterranean, and DASH diets alongside plant-based approaches.

Type2Diabetes.com: Video-Based Education and Support

For those who prefer visual learning, Type2Diabetes.com and its companion YouTube channel offer a wealth of informative videos. Created by Toby Smithson, RDN, CDCES, this resource stands out for its ability to break down complex diabetes concepts into easily digestible content.

How does Type2Diabetes.com approach diabetes education? Smithson, who has type 1 diabetes herself, focuses on providing practical, day-to-day advice for managing the condition. Her “Diabetes EveryDay” brand emphasizes the importance of consistent care and offers free resources to address common questions and concerns.

Notable videos to watch on Type2Diabetes.com include:

• “Looking for Hidden Sugar” – Tips for identifying less obvious sources of sugar in your diet
• “5 Basic Must-Do’s for Managing Your Diabetes” – Essential strategies for diabetes care

With nearly 4,000 YouTube subscribers, Smithson’s channel provides a streamlined viewing experience, while the website offers additional features like video transcripts for those who prefer reading.

Diabetes Team: Fostering Community Among Type 2 Diabetics

For individuals seeking to connect specifically with others who have type 2 diabetes, Diabetes Team offers a dedicated platform. This online community provides a space for sharing experiences, asking questions, and finding support from people facing similar challenges.

How does Diabetes Team facilitate connections? The platform allows users to create profiles, join discussions, and participate in various forums related to type 2 diabetes management. This peer-to-peer interaction can be especially valuable for those feeling isolated or seeking practical advice from others with lived experience.

Key features of Diabetes Team include:

• Discussion forums on topics like medication, diet, and lifestyle changes
• Personal blogs where members can share their diabetes journeys
• Resources and articles curated for the type 2 diabetes community

The Role of Plant-Based Diets in Diabetes Management

As highlighted by blogs like Reversing T2D, plant-based diets have gained attention for their potential benefits in managing type 2 diabetes. But what does the research say about the effectiveness of plant-based eating for blood sugar control?

Several studies have shown promising results for plant-based diets in diabetes management:

• A meta-analysis published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that plant-based diets were associated with improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetes
• Research in the journal Nutrients revealed that plant-based diets can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation
• A study in Diabetes Care showed that a low-fat vegan diet improved glycemic control and reduced the need for medications in type 2 diabetics

Why might plant-based diets be beneficial for diabetes? These eating patterns typically emphasize:

1. High fiber intake, which can help regulate blood sugar levels
2. Lower saturated fat consumption, potentially improving insulin sensitivity
3. Increased intake of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which may have anti-inflammatory effects
4. Weight management, a crucial factor in diabetes control

Navigating Diabetes Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Many diabetes bloggers have addressed these concerns, providing guidance on maintaining health and managing stress during this uncertain time.

How has the pandemic affected diabetes management? Key issues include:

• Increased risk of severe COVID-19 complications for people with diabetes
• Disruptions to routine medical care and access to supplies
• Stress-related impacts on blood sugar control
• Changes in diet and exercise habits due to lockdowns and social distancing

Diabetes bloggers have responded by offering practical advice for pandemic-related challenges:

1. Tips for maintaining a healthy diet while limiting grocery store trips
2. Home workout routines to stay active during lockdowns
3. Strategies for managing stress and anxiety
4. Guidance on telehealth appointments and remote diabetes care
5. Information on COVID-19 vaccines and diabetes

The Power of Personal Stories in Diabetes Blogs

While medical advice and scientific information are crucial, many diabetes blogs stand out for their personal touch. Bloggers who share their own experiences living with type 2 diabetes offer unique insights and relatable content that can be incredibly empowering for readers.

Why are personal stories so impactful in diabetes blogs? They provide:

• Real-world examples of diabetes management strategies
• Emotional support and a sense of community
• Motivation and inspiration for those struggling with their diagnosis
• Practical tips and tricks learned through personal experience

Many successful diabetes bloggers combine personal anecdotes with evidence-based information, creating content that is both engaging and informative. This approach helps readers connect emotionally while also providing them with reliable, actionable advice.

Examples of Powerful Personal Narratives in Diabetes Blogs

Several popular diabetes blogs showcase the impact of personal storytelling:

1. DiabetesMine: Founded by Amy Tenderich, this blog offers a mix of personal experiences, news, and product reviews
2. The Diabetic Journey: Mila Clarke Buckley shares her experiences with both type 2 diabetes and PCOS
3. Diabetes Strong: Christel Oerum combines personal insights with fitness and nutrition advice for diabetics

Evaluating the Credibility of Diabetes Blogs

With the abundance of diabetes-related content online, it’s crucial for readers to critically evaluate the credibility of the information they encounter. Not all diabetes blogs are created equal, and some may promote misleading or even dangerous advice.

How can you assess the reliability of a diabetes blog? Consider the following factors:

• Author credentials: Look for blogs written or reviewed by healthcare professionals
• Evidence-based content: Credible blogs cite scientific studies and reputable sources
• Transparency: Reliable bloggers disclose any conflicts of interest or sponsorships
• Up-to-date information: Check that the content is current and regularly updated
• Balanced perspective: Be wary of blogs that make extreme claims or promote “miracle cures”

It’s always advisable to consult with your healthcare team before making significant changes to your diabetes management plan based on information found online.

Red Flags to Watch for in Diabetes Blogs

Be cautious of blogs that exhibit these warning signs:

1. Promoting supplements or products as diabetes “cures”
2. Encouraging readers to stop taking prescribed medications
3. Making claims that contradict established medical guidelines
4. Lacking citations or references for medical information
5. Using fear-mongering tactics to sell products or services

The Future of Diabetes Blogging and Online Communities

As technology continues to evolve, so too does the landscape of diabetes blogging and online support. Emerging trends are shaping the future of how people with type 2 diabetes connect, learn, and manage their condition online.

What developments can we expect in diabetes blogging and online communities? Some exciting possibilities include:

• Integration of wearable technology and real-time data sharing
• Virtual reality support groups and educational experiences
• Artificial intelligence-powered personalized health recommendations
• Increased collaboration between bloggers and healthcare providers
• More diverse representation in diabetes narratives and experiences

These advancements have the potential to make diabetes management more accessible, personalized, and effective for millions of people worldwide.

The Role of Social Media in Diabetes Support

While traditional blogs remain popular, social media platforms are playing an increasingly important role in diabetes support and education. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter offer unique advantages:

1. Bite-sized, easily digestible content
2. Visual demonstrations of diabetes management techniques
3. Real-time interaction with diabetes educators and fellow patients
4. Broader reach, especially among younger demographics
5. Hashtag-based communities for specific diabetes-related topics

Many diabetes bloggers are expanding their presence across multiple platforms to reach diverse audiences and leverage the strengths of each medium.

10 Type 2 Diabetes Blogs to Watch in 2022

Type 2 diabetes is not a disease to approach passively or alone. (Easier said than done, we know.) The good news is that there are a number of diabetes blogs and social media accounts that are packed with credible, informative, and inspiring advice. They can motivate you to stay on track with your health goals, whether that’s lowering your A1C, overhauling your diet, losing weight, or something else.

Such support is especially important while COVID-19 remains prevalent. That’s because diabetes puts you at a higher risk of complications of the disease, as the American Diabetes Association has warned. Also, stress caused by the pandemic may affect your ability to manage your blood sugar. More than 400 people with relatively well controlled type 1 and type 2 diabetes participated in a Netherlands-based study published in January 2021 in BMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care, and those who reported having more difficulty controlling their blood sugar during the first two to three months of lockdown in spring 2020 also reported higher stress than the others.

RELATED: 10 Diabetes Care Tips During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Building virtual kinship with others who are living with diabetes may help with blood sugar management. According to a review of 47 studies published in March 2019 in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, participation in what’s called a diabetes online community (DOC), to which bloggers can belong, may increase the likelihood a person will develop diabetes-friendly habits, such as healthy eating, exercise, regular blood sugar checks, and taking insulin as prescribed. What’s more, participation was linked to a neutral or improved A1C.

Ready to jump in? We’ve rounded up some of the best type 2 diabetes blogs and accounts to check out in 2022. They’ll help you feel more educated and connected — during the current pandemic and beyond.

1. Reversing T2D

The duo behind Reversing T2D combine nutrition and exercise advice to help people delay or reverse the progression of type 2 diabetes. Diana Licalzi is a registered dietitian and a certified diabetes care and education specialist ba

sed in Boulder, Colorado, and Jose Tejero is an exercise physiologist and Ironman athlete who lives in Rockville, Maryland. Their blog contains tips and hacks for plant-based eating, staying physically active, and managing everyday tasks with the disease. “We each saw a crucial need for more education and care in the diabetes space, and knew we wanted to offer more than what is provided in the traditional healthcare system,” Licalzi explains. Together they’ve garnered more than 157,000 TikTok followers and 27,200 Instagram followers.

If you visit their blog, check out “The Effects of Plant-Based Diets on Blood Sugar & Type 2 Diabetes,” says Licalzi. “This post does a great job dissecting the latest research.” She also recommends “How Insulin Resistance Leads to Type 2 Diabetes. ” “It explains the root cause of type 2 diabetes, and how insulin resistance develops and leads to the development of pre- and type 2 diabetes,” she explains. Their blog clearly favors a plant-based diet, which is incorporated into courses and programs that they sell elsewhere on their website. The American Diabetes Association says a plant-based diet is among several eating plans that can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes or help manage it, with others including low-carbohydrate, Mediterranean, and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets.

RELATED: The Best and Worst Foods to Eat in a Type 2 Diabetes Diet

2. Type2Diabetes.com

If you like watching videos to absorb advice and get tips, this site and companion YouTube channel will be right up your alley. Toby Smithson, RDN, CDCES, of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, has a knack for explaining complex topics in simple and cheerful ways. “Diabetes needs to be managed every day. That’s where I came up with my brand Diabetes EveryDay. My videos and website are there — at no cost — for those day-to-day questions that arise while managing diabetes,” says Smithson. She has type 1 diabetes, but offers plenty of information that is relevant for those with the type 2 condition, such as the importance of fiber in your diet or how to keep sweets in your life without spiking your blood sugar.

Watch the videos on Diabetes EveryDay if you also want to see the transcripts, or go to her YouTube channel, which has nearly 4,000 subscribers, for a streamlined experience. She recommends checking out “Looking for Hidden Sugar” and “5 Basic Must-Do’s for Managing Your Diabetes” first.

RELATED: The Best Diabetes Apps for Managing Blood Glucose, Food Intake, and More

4. Diabetes Team

If you’re strictly interested in engaging with other people who have type 2 diabetes, this online community may be for you. A good launching point is Diabetes Team’s Resources page, where you can access several articles and guides for living with the disease and staying safe in the COVID-19 era.

Then when you are ready to jump in and share your experiences, advice, and emotional support, go to their homepage and sign up for free. (Just a heads-up: The site may keep you logged in after you have registered.) There, new articles are interspersed with member posts about everyday living, concerns about health, and messages of support. You can connect with others who have interests in common by adding them to your “team.” “More than 116,000 registered members rely on the Diabetes Team web and mobile apps for meaningful connection and trusted information,” says Michelle Cox, a spokesperson for the San Francisco parent company, My Health Teams.

5. DiaTribe Learn

The Diabetic Foodie blog, which comes from the Diabetes Strong team, aims to show readers that “a diabetes diagnosis is not a dietary death sentence.” The founder, Shelby Kinnaird, another self-proclaimed foodie and person living with type 2 diabetes, created the blog to turn that mindset around. You’ll find a plethora of incredible recipes for dinners, side dishes, condiments, desserts, beverages, breads, and more.

Most of the meal recipes contain fewer than 400 calories per portion, with less than 45 grams of carbohydrates, and focus on providing lean proteins, nonstarchy vegetables, and healthy fats. There are special sections for paleo, vegan, and gluten-free eaters. Get inspired by the blog’s stunning pictures of popular dishes, such as Low-Carb Chicken Cacciatore, and tempting sweets like the gluten-free, keto-friendly brownies made with avocado.

RELATED: 7 Low-Carb Diet Mistakes to Avoid When You Have Type 2 Diabetes

8. Diabetes Self-Management

Acting as a go-to source for all things diabetes, the Diabetes Self-Management blog is more than just a place for personal stories and recipes (which it also has, by the way). Stop first at the News and Research section for timely information about the latest developments related to diabetes in the COVID-19 era. Then go to the type 2 diabetes section for relevant updates and advice. If you’re feeling peckish, check out the mouthwatering recipes, such as Greek Lemon Chicken and Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies. Finally, during these stressful times, peruse their advice for managing your mental wellness.

9. Wildly Fluctuating

Wildly Fluctuating is on a mission to raise diabetes awareness and debunk every misleading headline you’ve read online. Managed by Gretchen Becker, a health writer in Halifax, Vermont, with type 2 diabetes and the coauthor of The Four Corners Diet, Wildly Fluctuating reviews new developments such as emerging research about the newly identified fabkin hormone, which may be involved in the development of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. She also places them in context (“a lot more research needs to be done before fabkin wipes out diabetes”). What is most refreshing about the blog is her willingness to grapple openly with the daily frustrations of life with diabetes. How many times have we all thought to ourselves: “Life Is Unfair”?

RELATED: The Type 2 Diabetes Facts and Statistics You Need to Know

10. The Decadent Diabetic

8 Ways to Manage Type 2 Diabetes and Heart Health

If you have type 2 diabetes, you are at increased risk of heart disease. But the good news is that many of the healthy changes you can make to help control…

By Quinn PhillipsJuly 21, 2023

How Dehydration May Affect Type 2 Diabetes Management and Risk

Dehydration can make it harder for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar. But less is known about the link between dehydration and diabetes…

By Stephanie BucklinJuly 21, 2023

7 Healthy Meal Tips for Type 2 Diabetes

Knowing how many carbs to eat and understanding what foods to reach for and which to avoid are among the diet tips diabetics should follow. Learn how …

By Sheryl Huggins SalomonJuly 21, 2023

The Prediabetes Diet Everyone Should Follow

A prediabetes diet can benefit everyone, regardless of your type 2 diabetes risk. Learn how choosing fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins …

By Moira LawlerJuly 17, 2023

12 Easy Lunch Ideas for Type 2 Diabetes

Busy schedule or not, make time for lunch. Here, diabetes educators and dietitians share their secrets for building healthy, blood-sugar-friendly lunches…

By Lauren BedoskyJuly 12, 2023

7 Healthier Pasta Tips for People With Type 2 Diabetes

With the right prep, you can still enjoy pasta for dinner without sending your blood sugar soaring or derailing any weight loss goals. Certified diabetes…

By Lauren BedoskyJuly 6, 2023

The Best Nuts for Diabetes: Walnuts, Almonds, and More

Nuts can be a good snack for people with type 2 diabetes because they may help prevent heart disease, keep blood sugar controlled, and even aid weight…

By Moira LawlerJune 28, 2023

Is the Mediterranean Diet Best for Diabetes?

Research shows the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet is also beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Read how this approach helps lower A1C and rev…

By Jessica MigalaJune 22, 2023

7 Low-Carb Diet Mistakes to Avoid When You Have Diabetes

Cutting carbs is a mainstay of diabetes management, but it’s not foolproof. Avoid these potential mistakes on a low-carb diet for better health with type…

By K. Aleisha FettersJune 21, 2023

17 Best Diabetes Blogs of 2021

Managing diabetes can be challenging. But connecting with people who are navigating the same condition can make all the difference.

In selecting this year’s best diabetes blogs, Healthline looked for ones that stood out for their informative, inspiring, and empowering content. We hope you find them helpful.

Diabetes Self-Management

Managing diabetes doesn’t mean never indulging in foods you enjoy, which is why you’ll find over 900 diabetes-friendly recipes on this blog. Diabetes Self-Management also posts about product reviews, nutrition, meal planning, and exercise, plus tools for counting carbs, planning workouts, and much more.

Diabetic Foodie

Anyone living with diabetes, cooking for someone with diabetes, or just in search of healthy recipes will find help at the Diabetic Foodie. Shelby Kinnaird is a firm believer that diabetes isn’t a dietary death sentence, and after her own diagnosis with type 2 diabetes, she started experimenting with recipes that are as delicious as they are nutritionally sound.

Diabetes Stories

Riva Greenberg began blogging to share her thoughts and experiences both as someone living with diabetes and working in the healthcare industry. She has flourished with diabetes and her blog has become a forum for helping others do the same. Her posts cover her own stories about nutrition, advocacy, and updates on current research.

Diabetes Dad

Tom Karlya has two children with diabetes, and he’s been committed to staying educated about the condition and its best management tools since his daughter’s diagnosis in 1992. Tom isn’t a medical professional — just a father sharing what he’s learned as he navigates this path with his children. It’s that perspective that makes this is a great place for other parents of children with diabetes.

College Diabetes Network

The College Diabetes Network is a nonprofit organization focused on helping young adults with diabetes enjoy healthy living by offering a space for peer connections and expert resources. There’s an extensive amount of information here and the blog offers content specific to diabetes and college life. Browse personal stories, current news, tips for studying abroad with diabetes, and more.

Insulin Nation

For the latest news regarding type 1 diabetes, Insulin Nation is a great resource. Posts are frequently updated with current information about advancements, clinical trials, technology, product reviews, and advocacy. Content is organized into treatment, research, and living categories so you can find exactly the information you need.

Diabetogenic

Renza Scibilia’s blog is about real life with type 1 diabetes. And while diabetes isn’t the center of her life — that’s a space reserved for her husband, daughter, and coffee — it’s a factor. Renza writes about the ongoing challenges of living with diabetes and she does so with humor and grace.

ADCES

The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists, or ADCES, is a professional organization committed to improving the care of those living with diabetes. It does so through advocacy, education, research, and prevention, and that’s the kind of information it’s sharing on the blog as well. Posts are written by diabetes experts for the benefit of other professionals in the industry.

Diabetes Forecast

Diabetes Forecast (the website for the healthy living magazine of the American Diabetes Association) offers comprehensive guidance and advice for living with diabetes. Visitors can read all about this condition, browse recipes and food, find tips for weight loss and fitness, and learn about blood glucose and medications. There are also links to trending diabetes news and a podcast sharing what’s new in diabetes research.

Diabetes Strong

Christel Oerum launched Diabetes Strong (originally TheFitBlog) as a platform for sharing her personal experiences as a fitness enthusiast with type 1 diabetes. The site has become a place for expert contributors from across the globe to share tips and advice for leading healthy, active lives with any type of diabetes.

Children’s Diabetes Foundation

The Children’s Diabetes Foundation is an organization dedicated to providing patient support to children, adolescents, and young adults living with type 1 diabetes. On their blog, readers will find posts written by kids and parents detailing the daily experiences of living with diabetes. Growing up with type 1 diabetes can be tough, but these posts from young people offer relatable stories for others navigating life with diabetes.

Hangry Woman

Founded by type 2 diabetes patient advocate Mila Clarke Buckley in 2016, Hangry Woman brings approachable resources about diabetes to both men and women. You’ll find everything from diabetes management topics to recipes, self-care, and travel tips. With Hangry Woman, no topic is off-limits and Buckley tackles tough issues such as the shame and stigma of type 2 diabetes while still reinforcing her message that you can live a full, happy, and healthy life.

Diabetes UK Blog

Diabetes UK Blogs — under the umbrella of the official Diabetes UK — brings first person stories of people living with diabetes. You’ll find stories of people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, along with research-based and fundraising blogs. You’ll find yourself cheering for the beginner who reached his goals of swimming in his first race and nodding along about exploring how taking care of your emotional well-being ties into the full spectrum of diabetes management.

Gestational Diabetes UK

For many expectant people, a gestational diabetes (GD) diagnosis can come as a huge shock. Already dealing with the challenges and stressors that can come along with pregnancy, GD throws a whole new curveball their way. This blog was founded by a mom who received her own GD diagnosis and combines resources such as dealing with your diagnosis, recipes, birth preparation, life after GD, as well as a membership area for more detailed assistance.

Yoga for Diabetes

Blogger Rachel chronicles her journey with type 1 diabetes since her 2008 diagnosis and how she uses yoga as a form of healing, coping, inspiration, and disease management. Her open look at life with diabetes, from the challenges of eating to live, to actually enjoying what’s on your plate, are refreshing and honest. She also offers a Facebook group and an e-book for anyone interested in exploring a yoga journey further.

JDRF

Geared specifically for type 1 diabetes in children, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation focuses heavily on fundraising efforts aimed toward curing type 1 diabetes completely. You’ll find practical and professional resources to walk you through a new type 1 diabetes diagnosis in your child, as well as personal stories to help show you that you’re not alone in the challenges this condition can bring.

The Diabetic Journey

Brittany Gilleland, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12, started her blog to “change the way the world views” diabetes — and she’s accomplishing just that through resources like her custom T-shirts that show how diabetes can affect anyone, from weightlifters to “mama bears. ” She shares her ongoing journey with diabetes, as well as the stories of others (and you can submit your own story too), and updates on new developments and world issues that affect those with type 1 diabetes.

If you have a favorite blog you’d like to nominate, please email us at [email protected].

TYPE 2 DIABETES – A LIFESTYLE DISEASE

The number of new cases of type 2 diabetes is growing rapidly in Western countries. This increase is closely linked to the obesity epidemic in these countries. Today, type 2 diabetes is considered a lifestyle disease.

Approximately 8.5% of the world’s population suffers from diabetes. Every 6 seconds, 1 person dies from this disease.

425 million

This is a pandemic with an exponential increase in incidence: according to the World Health Organization, in 2014 the number of people with type 2 diabetes was 425 million, and by 2040 this figure will reach 622 million

Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% of all cases of diabetes. The rise in the prevalence of diabetes and obesity in Western countries is occurring in parallel.

LIFESTYLE DISEASE

The main risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes are age and overweight: in 60-90% of patients, it is significantly above the norm. Although the disease most often develops over the age of 40, there is a growing incidence of diabetes among obese adolescents in the United States. A sedentary lifestyle is also a risk factor.

However, there is also a genetic predisposition to developing type 2 diabetes. Scientists have discovered several genes responsible for the function of pancreatic beta cells. Their presence in the genome is associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes. Environmental factors may increase this risk. Finally, people with metabolic syndrome (a combination of high blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides) have a higher risk of the disease.

NON-INSULIN-DEPENDENT DIABETES MELLITUS

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) is a chronically elevated blood glucose level. There are two reasons for this hyperglycemia: reduced production of insulin by the pancreas, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels, and insufficient susceptibility of target organ cells (liver, skeletal muscles, adipose tissue) to insulin – insulin resistance.

SILENT DISEASE

Most of the time, chronic hyperglycemia is not accompanied by symptoms, and therefore, according to various estimates, from 30 to 80% of cases of diabetes remain undetected. The diagnosis of diabetes is based on the results of a routine blood test or when complications develop that make the condition more serious.

TREATMENT BY LIFESTYLE AND DIET CHANGE

Lifestyle changes may be enough to control type 2 diabetes. The components of the standard treatment approach are weight loss (if needed), exercise, and a healthy diet.

Oral antidiabetic agents may be given as second-line therapy. There are several classes of these drugs: insulin sensitizers, insulin secretagogues, and alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. They differ in their mechanism of action and can be used singly or in combination. Compliance with the principles of a healthy lifestyle increases their effectiveness. When these measures are not enough to effectively treat type 2 diabetes, injections of insulin or analogues of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) can be used. GLP-1 analogues are “incretins”, i.e. drugs that increase the production of insulin and increase the sensitivity of cells to it. They provide improved glycemic control, reduced appetite, and slower gastric emptying. In some cases, treatment with these drugs has advantages over the use of insulin.

COMFORTABLE LIFE

WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES

Many books have been published with advice and guidance on how to live more comfortably with type 2 diabetes. Patients today have an abundance of information at their disposal on any topic: from diet recipes for real gourmets to advice on choosing the right sports. Learning this information is very helpful for people in need of a lifestyle change. In addition, informing patients with type 2 diabetes has been proven to improve their quality of life.

SERVIER’S ROLE

The Research and Development division of the Servier Group is actively involved in research into the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and the identification of new therapeutic targets to improve patient care and prevent complications.

What’s more, Servier has partnered with Nutrikeo, a nutrition consulting company. The purpose of this collaboration is to familiarize doctors with recipes for new dishes and conduct master classes for them, so that they, in turn, can share tips on how to use certain spices (garlic, curry, basil) with their patients suffering from type 2 diabetes. to reduce the amount of salt consumed, and other ingredients (vanilla, coconut, cinnamon) – to reduce the amount of sugar consumed.

REMEMBER

1. See your doctor regularly
   Type 2 diabetes develops insidiously. To make a diagnosis, plan measures for dynamic monitoring and prevent complications, a doctor’s consultation is required.