The goals of treating diabetes are to control blood glucose levels (preventing them from rising too high or falling too low) and preventing complications. There are three primary areas of treatment for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes

  • Nutrition
    People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes need to be aware of what and how much they eat. Following a meal plan, which a certified diabetes educator or registered dietitian can help develop, can help you maintain an ideal blood glucose level, lose weight and lower your risk for complications.
  • Physical activity
    An important part of controlling diabetes and preventing complications. Thirty minutes a day of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, is an effective way to help control blood sugar levels.
  • Medication
    Eating a healthful diet and engaging in physical activity is often not enough to treat type 2 diabetes. Frequently, people with type 2 diabetes require oral medications to help them control their blood glucose levels. People with type 1 diabetes (and some with type 2) need to take insulin through multiple daily injections or an insulin pump that delivers insulin continuously throughout the day.