Living with diabetes can be challenging. There are countless things to watch out for every day. Treatment may start with oral diabetes medications, but as the condition progresses, some people may eventually need insulin injections.

If you have prediabetes, taking action to prevent it from progressing to diabetes is especially important. Even if you already have diabetes, managing your blood sugar carefully may help delay or avoid the need for insulin injections. When blood sugar is controlled effectively through diet and exercise, medication or insulin may not always be necessary.

Some People With Diabetes Need Insulin Injections Before Every Meal — “It’s So Inconvenient”

Some people with type 2 diabetes need to take insulin before meals. These injections are designed to work similarly to the insulin naturally released by the body during a meal. Because they help control the rise in blood sugar after eating, they are commonly referred to as mealtime insulin or prandial insulin.

According to the Korean Diabetes Association, mealtime insulin is generally taken about 20 minutes before a meal, or at the latest immediately before eating. Taking it after a meal may reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Some newer mealtime insulin products, however, can be taken immediately before or within 20 minutes after a meal. The appropriate timing depends on the specific medication and should be determined in consultation with a doctor.

Insulin Doses May Need to Be Adjusted Based on Food Intake — Keep Carbohydrate Intake Consistent

A starting dose of mealtime insulin needs to be established first. If blood sugar measured four to five hours after a meal is within the target range, that dose may be used as a baseline. If blood sugar remains above the target range, the insulin dose may need to be increased; if it is too low, the dose may need to be reduced.

While determining the appropriate dose, it is important to keep the amount of carbohydrates consumed at each meal relatively consistent. This makes it easier to determine how effectively the insulin dose is controlling blood sugar.

Insulin doses may also need to be adjusted depending on how much you eat. If you eat less than usual, you may need a lower dose, while eating more may require a higher dose. Any changes in insulin dosing should be made according to your doctor's instructions.

Limiting Carbohydrates and Sugary Foods Is Essential — Watch Out for Sugary Side Dishes When Eating Out

Careful blood sugar management can help reduce the likelihood of eventually needing insulin injections. Avoid overeating and keep your intake of carbohydrates such as rice, noodles and bread in check.

When eating out, pay particular attention to side dishes that contain added sugar. Simple sugars such as sugar and honey are rapidly digested and absorbed, which can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly.

Soft drinks, fruit juices and snacks can also contain large amounts of added sugar. Check nutrition labels carefully and try to avoid products that are high in sugar. Anyone trying to manage their blood sugar should become familiar with reading the nutrition facts labels on processed foods.

Why Fiber and Protein Matter — They Can Help Prevent Blood Sugar Spikes

Getting enough dietary fiber can also support blood sugar management. Fiber is abundant in vegetables, whole grains and beans. It slows the absorption of food in the digestive tract, which can help prevent rapid increases in blood sugar. Fiber may also help lower cholesterol levels and contribute to better blood sugar control and cardiovascular health.

Adequate protein from foods such as eggs, fish, meat and tofu may also help reduce sharp rises in blood sugar after meals.

If you have overeaten, avoid sitting for long periods after a meal. Getting up and moving around can help reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. Regular aerobic exercise and strength training can also play an important role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Source: 코메디닷컴 (https://kormedi.com/)