Managing Type 2 Diabetes with Diet and Exercise
Iswarya Medical Team
Internal Medicine Specialist · Iswarya Hospital
Type 2 diabetes can be managed — and even reversed in early stages — with the right combination of dietary changes and physical activity.
India has over 77 million people with Type 2 diabetes — the second-highest in the world. Lifestyle changes are the most powerful tool available.
Dietary Principles
- Choose complex carbs over refined ones: brown rice, whole wheat, oats
- Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables
- Limit sugar-sweetened beverages
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to prevent spikes
- Choose lean proteins: fish, chicken, legumes, tofu
Foods to Limit
- White rice, white bread, maida products
- Sugary drinks, sweets, mithai
- Deep-fried foods
- Processed meats
Exercise Recommendations
- 150 minutes/week of moderate aerobic exercise (brisk walking, cycling, swimming)
- 2–3 sessions/week of strength training
- Break sitting time every 30 minutes
Monitor Regularly
- Home blood glucose monitoring
- HbA1c every 3 months
- Annual eye, kidney, and foot checks
Medications Many people with Type 2 diabetes need medication or insulin alongside lifestyle changes. Never stop medication without consulting your doctor.
Our Internal Medicine team at Iswarya Hospital provides comprehensive diabetes care and personalised management plans.
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