Type 2 diabetes: Comprehensive management and glucose control

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Unlike type 1 diabetes, in type 2 the body does produce insulin, but doesn't use it efficiently or doesn't produce enough.

Key differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes:

• Type 1: Autoimmune, destroys insulin-producing cells
• Type 2: Insulin resistance, more common in adults
• Type 1: Requires insulin from diagnosis
• Type 2: Can initially be controlled without insulin

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes

Early symptoms:

• Increased thirst (polydipsia)
• Frequent urination (polyuria)
• Increased appetite (polyphagia)
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision
• Unexplained weight loss

Advanced symptoms:

• Slow-healing wounds
• Frequent infections
• Tingling in hands and feet
• Darkened skin (acanthosis nigricans)

Comprehensive treatment of type 2 diabetes

1. Lifestyle modifications

Nutrition:

• Complex carbohydrates: Quinoa, brown rice, oats
• Lean proteins: Fish, chicken, legumes
• Healthy fats: Avocado, nuts, olive oil
• Fiber: Vegetables, fruits with skin
• Plate method: 1/2 vegetables, 1/4 protein, 1/4 carbohydrates

Physical exercise:

• Aerobic: 150 minutes/week moderate intensity
• Resistance: 2-3 days/week weight exercises
• Flexibility: Yoga, daily stretching
• Benefits: Improves insulin sensitivity, glycemic control

2. Pharmacological treatment

First line:

• Metformin: Reduces hepatic glucose production
• Dose: 500-2000 mg/day
• Side effects: Nausea, diarrhea (temporary)

Second line:

• Sulfonylureas: Stimulate insulin secretion
• DPP-4 inhibitors: Increase incretins
• GLP-1 agonists: Injectable, weight loss
• Insulin: When other medications are insufficient

Monitoring and control

Glycemic targets:

• HbA1c: < 7% (healthy adults)
• Preprandial glucose: 80-130 mg/dL
• Postprandial glucose: < 180 mg/dL