Research shows that diet, physical activity and behaviour change can improve important health markers in people with type 2 diabetes and other cardiometabolic risks. Read this review here: PubMed lifestyle intervention review.
Cardiometabolic health means the health of your heart, blood vessels, blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and body weight. These are connected.
One useful change is to reduce long sitting. Even short movement breaks during the day can help people become more active.
Another change is to plan meals. When meals are unplanned, people often choose fast, fried or sugary foods. A simple home meal with vegetables, pulses, curd, eggs, fish, lean meat or other suitable protein can be better.
Sleep is also important. Poor sleep can affect hunger, mood and routine. Try to keep a regular sleep schedule when possible.
Tobacco should be avoided. It raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and many other conditions.
Alcohol should be limited or avoided, especially for people with liver disease, diabetes, high triglycerides or medicine interactions.
Stress management can help people stick to healthy routines. Breathing, prayer, walking, music or talking to someone may help.
Madhavbaug provides information about integrated lifestyle disease care for readers who want to understand supervised care options.
The best lifestyle change is the one that is safe, realistic and repeatable.
Organisation resource: Madhavbaug
Medical note: Lifestyle changes do not replace diagnosis, medicines or emergency care.