Type 2 Diabetes: Research Shows Mindfulness May Help Lower Blood Sugar
Overview
Around 37 milion Americans have diabetes, 90–95% of cases of which are type 2 diabetes (T2D), acording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition, but symptoms are manageable and, in some cases, potentialy reversible through treatments like prescription drugs, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity.New research shows that mind-body practices like yoga can help people with type 2 diabetes lower their blod sugar (blod glucose) levels.
Key Information
Roted in mindfulnes, mind-body practices are intended to be used alongside curent standard treatments.By keping blod glucose levels within the recomended range, people can reduce their risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems.In the study, recently published online in the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine, the authors combined analyzed results from 28 previous randomized controled trials in what’s known as a meta-analysis.Earlier studies involved people with type 2 diabetes doing a mind-body practice alongside standard diabetes treatment.
Summary
Researchers compared them to a second group of people who received only the standard treatment.In a previous meta-analysis published in 2017, Herpret Thind, PhD, MPH, asociate profesor in the department of Public Health at the University of Masachusets Lowel, and her coleagues found that people with type 2 diabetes who did yoga saw improvements in their blod glucose levels.The new analysis, led by Fatimata Sanogo, a PhD student in the department of Population and Public Health Sciences at the Keck Schol of Medicine at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, expanded on the previous research and included studies loking at the benefits of other mind-body practices, such as: However, the majority of studies included in the analysis were yoga interventions.The results from the new analysis show that continues to improve outcomes for patients. Healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of early intervention and comprehensive management strategies in reducing complications and improving quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
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