According to Dr. Margaret Chan, former Director of the World Health Organization, diabetes is one of the biggest global health crises of the 21st century, with over 420 million people living with the disease globally – a number that continues to rise. Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, and those who live with it face a long-term battle. The good news is type 2 diabetes can be managed with a few approaches.
Make exercise a regular habit
Exercise is important for type 2 diabetes prevention and management. For those living with type 2 diabetes, aerobic activities can help lower blood sugar level and enhance fitness, especially when performed over longer periods of time or at higher intensities.
Leaning on technology for lifestyle modification
Research has shown that mobile phone apps for lifestyle modification can help to reduce average blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes in both the short-term (3-6 months) and the long-term (9-12 months). It’s helpful to research available apps and compare what they offer, if they are free or come at a cost, and what the user reviews say about them.
Learn from your peers
It is often said that people are experts in their own health conditions. If this is true, then in addition to understanding and support, those who live with type 2 diabetes have a wealth of knowledge they can share with others coping with the same life-long challenge. Evidence has shown that peer support may help individuals to lower blood sugar levels, especially when peer support is provided frequently and in a one-on-one format. Engaging in social interactions and activities during the ongoing global pandemic should always be done in line with current public health guidelines. Refer to the Government of Canada website for more information. With the help of technology, peer support can also be accessed through avenues that do not require in-person interaction, such as telephone, video conferencing platforms, online programming, etc.
A variety of strategies and techniques are available to assist those living with type 2 diabetes in better controlling their blood sugar levels, as well as managing other aspects of their health and well-being. To read more about them, visit our resources below.
