Diabetes and Weight Loss | GoldenEraMart Health Junction

Diabetes and weight loss: It is the yin and yang of optimal health. There’s no question about it. If you’re overweight and have type 2 diabetes, dropping pounds lowers your blood sugar, improves your health, and helps you feel better.

But before you start a weight loss plan, it’s important to work closely with your doctor or diabetes educator — because while you’re losing weight, your blood sugar, insulin, and medications need special attention.

Make no mistake — No matter how heavy you are, losing weight will significantly lower your blood sugar.

A National Institutes of Health study found that a combination of diet and exercise cuts the risk of developing diabetes by 58%. The study involved people who were overweight (average body mass index of 34) and who had high — but not yet diabetic — blood sugar levels.

Even losing 10 or 15 pounds has health benefits, according to the American Diabetes Association. It can:

• Lower blood sugar
• Reduce blood pressure
• Improve cholesterol levels
• Lighten the stress on hips, knees, ankles, and feet

Plus, you’ll probably have more energy, get around easier, and breathe easier.

Diabetes and Weight Loss | GoldenEraMart Health Junction