5 Things People With Type 2 Diabetes Want You To Know

It's no secret that living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) can be challenging, but you don't have to go through it alone. Whether you've been diagnosed recently or have had type 2 diabetes for a while, supportive and understanding friends and family can make all the difference.

To help bridge the gap between a person living with diabetes and those around them, I'm sharing 5 truths about what it's like to live with diabetes.

5 things to know about type 2 diabetes

Keep reading for insight into what those with type 2 diabetes want you to know!

Type 2 diabetes isn't shameful

Type 2 diabetes isn't something to be ashamed of. Living with type 2 diabetes doesn't make someone weak or lazy – it just means they must take extra care of themselves. Understanding and accepting this is a chronic health condition is the first step toward managing it.

Nutrition is really important

People with T2D need to pay attention to sugar and carb intake. Overeating sugar or carbohydrates can cause blood glucose levels to spike, leading to complications like fatigue or headaches. Knowing which foods have those impacts on us is important.

A nutritious eating plan is key in managing diabetes. Eating fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help keep blood glucose levels stable and prevent complications like heart disease or stroke.

Physical activity helps control blood sugar

Regular exercise is essential for controlling blood sugar levels.

People with diabetes are often advised to participate in at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day, whether walking, running, swimming, or cycling – anything that increases your heart rate!

Medicine is a helpful tool

Medicine can be helpful, but it's not the only answer to managing diabetes. There are so many medications and treatments available, so seeing doctors that you trust is key!

People with diabetes have a lot to juggle. A combination of lifestyle choices and medicine can be part of an overall diabetes management plan.

Stress and emotions have an impact

Your emotions can affect your blood glucose levels. Stress hormones like cortisol that are released when feeling overwhelmed can raise the amount of sugar in the bloodstream.¹

Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation can help keep our bodies healthy long-term!

Ending the type 2 diabetes stigma

It's time to end the stigma around T2D and recognize it as an unpredictable health condition. Living with diabetes is not an easy feat, and resilient individuals need all the support they can get!

Friends and family

Fellow friends and family: you can do a few things to provide support. Ask questions about how your friend with diabetes keeps up with nutrition and exercise. Offer emotional support, and be there for them when stress is building. Most importantly though - educate yourself about type 2 diabetes.

Learn the facts so that you can be there for your loved one in a way that will make all the difference to them. Supporting those with diabetes is instrumental in helping them feel seen and heard. Let's work together to end the stigma!