Type 2 Diabetes: A Natural Approach
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body metabolizes glucose (blood sugar). Normally, the hormone insulin helps move glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it's used as energy. However, in type 2 diabetes, cells become resistant to insulin, and the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels stable. As a result, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels, which can cause damage to various organs over time.
Approximately 415 million people globally have diabetes, and around 90% of these cases are type 2 diabetes. This condition is most common in adults over 45, but cases in younger individuals, even children, are on the rise due to lifestyle factors.
Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes develops slowly, and symptoms can often go unnoticed for years. Some common symptoms include:
Increased thirst and frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and low energy levels
Blurred vision
Slow-healing cuts or infections
Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
Frequent hunger and cravings, especially for sweets
Darkened skin patches, often in the neck or armpit area (a condition called acanthosis nigricans)
Since symptoms can be mild, many people with type 2 diabetes may not realise they have it until it's detected through routine blood tests.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of type 2 diabetes isn’t fully understood, but it’s often linked to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including:
Insulin Resistance: Over time, cells become less responsive to insulin, forcing the pancreas to work harder to regulate blood sugar.
Obesity and Physical Inactivity: Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, and lack of physical activity are major risk factors for type 2 diabetes.
Genetic Factors: A family history of diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor Diet: Diets high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats can contribute to insulin resistance.
Chronic Stress: Persistent stress can lead to high cortisol levels, which have been shown to contribute to insulin resistance and blood sugar imbalance.
How do GPs Diagnose Type 2 Diabetes?
There are several tests that GPs can use to diagnose type 2 diabetes:
Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar after fasting overnight.
A1C Test: Provides an average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood sugar before and after consuming a sugary drink to see how the body processes glucose.
A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is made if blood sugar levels are above a certain threshold on these tests.
What Treatment is Available?
Type 2 diabetes can be managed with lifestyle changes and, in many cases, medication. Standard treatments include:
Diet and Exercise: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods and engaging in regular physical activity can significantly help manage blood sugar levels.
Medications: Some individuals may need oral medications or insulin injections to control blood sugar.
Regular Monitoring: Routine blood glucose monitoring is essential for managing diabetes and preventing complications.
How Can a Nutritional Therapist Help?
A nutritional therapist can provide personalised support to manage and even improve type 2 diabetes symptoms. A holistic approach can help optimise blood sugar levels, address underlying imbalances, and enhance overall health.
My Approach
My approach to supporting clients with type 2 diabetes involves addressing key areas:
1. Blood Sugar Regulation: Focusing on nutrient-dense, low-glycemic foods to prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.
2. Weight Management: Developing sustainable eating and lifestyle habits to promote a healthy weight, reducing insulin resistance.
3. Anti-inflammatory Diet: Inflammation can exacerbate insulin resistance, so incorporating anti-inflammatory foods is crucial.
4. Improving Insulin Sensitivity: By including certain nutrients and lifestyle changes, we can help enhance the body’s response to insulin.
5. Supporting Liver Health: The liver plays a key role in regulating blood sugar. Supporting liver function can improve metabolic health.
6. Addressing Stress and Sleep: Chronic stress and lack of sleep can both impact blood sugar. Mindfulness techniques and sleep support can make a difference.
7. Gut Health Optimization: A healthy gut supports balanced blood sugar and reduced inflammation.
Functional Testing
To better understand your unique needs, I may recommend specific tests, such as:
Comprehensive Blood Panel: To assess glucose, insulin, lipid profiles, and inflammation markers.
Micronutrient Testing: Identifying any nutrient deficiencies that may be impacting blood sugar or energy levels.
Cortisol and Adrenal Function Tests: Chronic stress can affect blood sugar, so assessing adrenal function can be beneficial.
Taking Control of Your Health
Type 2 diabetes can be a manageable condition with the right support. Through nutritional therapy and lifestyle changes, you can feel empowered to take control of your health, improve your energy levels, and lower your risk of complications.
If you or someone you know is navigating the challenges of type 2 diabetes, get in touch today. There are effective, natural ways to support your journey to better health.