Lifestyle Interventions for Type 2 Diabetes: Going Beyond Glycemic Control

If you have type 2 diabetes, you are probably well aware of the importance of glycemic control. After all, current care guidelines place a lot of emphasis on this metric.

But you may not know that glycemic control is just one part of the puzzle when managing your diabetes. In fact, research indicates that focusing on glycemic control to the exclusion of all else may not be the best approach to achieving optimal health outcomes.

That's where a functional medicine approach comes in. Functional medicine is an evidence-based approach that considers the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.

This holistic approach has successfully managed type 2 diabetes and related health concerns. In particular, dietary change as a first-line treatment effectively reverses diabetes.

Why Glycemic Control May Not Be Enough

Glycemic control is essential, but it is not the only factor to consider when managing type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a complex condition with many interconnected causes.

For example, inflammation, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial dysfunction all play a role in developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, addressing these underlying causes is essential to achieving optimal health outcomes.

In addition, patients with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk for many related health concerns, including vision impairment, renal dysfunction, podiatric concerns, and dental disease. A singular focus on glycemic control may not be enough to reduce the risk of these complications. Instead, a more comprehensive approach is needed.

When medical practitioners ignore the underlying causes of disease and instead focus on symptom management, they are not only doing a disservice to their patients but also missing an opportunity to prevent the development of chronic diseases. That's why a functional medicine approach is so important.

The Functional Medicine Approach

Functional medicine is an evidence-based approach that takes into account the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. This holistic approach has shown success in managing type 2 diabetes and related health concerns. In particular, dietary change as a first-line treatment has been shown to be effective in reversing diabetes.

Dietary interventions can help improve glycemic indices by reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. In addition, dietary changes can help reduce the risk of complications by providing the nutrients needed for optimal health.

For example, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to protect against vision loss, while magnesium supplementation can help prevent or delay diabetic nephropathy. Similarly, a diet rich in fiber can help reduce the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Find New Methods for Treating Type 2 Diabetes with Internal Healing & Wellness

If you have type 2 diabetes and are struggling to manage your condition, you may want to consider a functional medicine approach. This holistic approach can help you get to the root of your health concerns and improve your overall health.

At Internal Healing & Wellness, we use functional medicine to treat type 2 diabetes and related health concerns. Dr. Khan takes the time to get to know each patient and tailor treatment plans to meet their individual needs - going beyond symptom management to address the underlying causes of disease.

To learn more about our approach to functional medicine, visit our Woodlands office today or book an appointment online today!