Help Prevent Diabetes (lifestyle swaps and good supplements)
Diabetes is a real ticking timebomb these days in England, with many children and younger adults getting type-2 diabetes, years earlier than when it was thought to be a ‘normal age’ to be at risk.
Type-1 diabetes needs insulin injections, but type-2 can usually be managed with lifestyle changes. It’s caused when blood sugar is too high, so cells don’t respond in the normal way to make insulin.
This can lead to fatigue and weight gain, eye problems and even amputation (which is why people diagnosed with diabetes should always wear shoes (and have regular podiatrist care, as some patients can’t feel if they have stubbed a toe etc, which could become infected).
Early symptoms of diabetes are thirst, frequent loo trips, slow-healing wounds, blurred vision, fatigue and dark skin patches around the neck and armpits. An easy way to check is to give blood (although you can still give blood, the pre-giving tests are for anaemia and diabetes, so you’ll soon find out).
Type-1 diabetes is usually genetic, but many say children are at reduced risk if breastfed (and not use dairy formula longer than necessary). That’s why all ads have to say ‘we recommend only using breast milk for the first six months’.
Learn to cook plant-based recipes
Swap white bread/rice/pasta for wholegrains, and avoid processed meat (sausages, bacon). Plant foods have antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens ((check medication due to interaction with vitamin K).
National Diabetes Program (US) has great success, replacing animal products, oily/fried foods and refined sugar – with fruits, veggies, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats.
Take regular exercise
Get at least 150 minutes of weekly exercise (walking is fine, as is swimming, workouts or sport). Walking has some effect, but ideally use bodyweight exercises (follow simple videos from trainer Lucy Wyndham-Read). Or use resistance bands (buy with workout videos at Move It Or Lose It! (includes wheelchair options).
Give up smoking and limit alcohol
Give up smoking and limit alcohol. Both can lead to greater risk of diabetes. NHS guidelines for booze are one glass or wine OR one pint of beer OR 2 spirit measures (no more than 6 times a week).
Of course no alcohol for driving and pregnancy/nursing – or alcohol issues.
Get quality sleep
Make quality sleep of 7 to 9 hours a priority. Find natural sleep tips, if you’re an insomnia.
Stay hydrated (water over wine!)
Six to weight glass of water a day is a good aim for most people. Drink two glasses before each main meal, to easily achieve this. Avoid sugary drinks.
Switch donations to humane research
Most diabetes charities test on innocent animals, with little effect. Switch donations to humane research, to help cure diabetes using modern, kind and more efficient methods.
Dr.Vegan GlucoBalance (helps balance blood sugar)
Dr.Vegan GlucoBalance is a quality supplement, the first order is sold in a refillable metal tin. You then just order refills in eco-friendly pouches after that, to save on waste and save money. Subscribe online for big savings, once you have the first order with the tin.
Designed for anyone who needs to balance blood sugar or regulate insulin, this supplements support a healthy metabolism. It contains chromium, cinnamon, inositol, fenugreek and apple cider vinegar.
Check with GP before taking supplements if on medication (or if pregnant/nursing). Keep supplements away from children and pets and recycle unused ones at pharmacies (never flush down the loo).
Take 2 capsules daily, within 30 to 60 minutes of a meal. Don’t take on an empty stomach. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
How long to take these supplements to work?
- 2 weeks (better blood sugar levels, energy & mood)
- 4 weeks (reduced cravings and better metabolism)
- 2 months (better digestion, healthy appetite)
- 3 months (better insulin sensitivity & blood lipid levels)
