"Let's Talk About Insulin and Diet" - SAC Health Answers (Ep. 35)
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
Let's Talk About Insulin and Diet: Can Lifestyle Changes Help You Get Off Insulin?
Can simple changes to what you eat and how you move actually help you manage, or even eliminate, your need for insulin?
In Episode 35 of SAC Health Answers, host Dr. Jason Lohr, CEO & Family Physician, at SAC Health is joined by Dr. Maryellen Westerberg, COO & Registered Dietitian, to address a crucial question from viewer Leslie: "Can I get off insulin by making dietary and lifestyle changes?"
The short answer? For many people with Type 2 Diabetes, the answer is a very hopeful YES!
Type 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes: An Important Distinction
Type 1 Diabetes: The body cannot make insulin on its own. People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day for life.
Type 2 Diabetes: The body still makes insulin, but it has trouble using it correctly. Healthy daily habits can help your body use insulin much better!
The Two Big Steps: Food and Exercise
Two main steps you can take to help your body use insulin better:
Eat Whole, Healthy Foods: Pick fresh foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains instead of processed snacks. This helps keep your blood sugar steady.
Stay Active Every Day: Exercise works like magic for your muscles. It helps them absorb extra sugar from your blood and use it for energy.
Doing both of these things puts the power back in your hands!
Together, this one-two punch puts significant control back in your hands.
What is Diabetes Remission?
The goal of eating well and staying active is something doctors call diabetes remission.
Remission means your blood sugar test (called an HbA1c) drops below 6.5% without needing medicine. If your blood sugar stays in a healthy range because of your hard work, your doctor may decide you no longer need to take insulin.
⚠️ Important Safety Rule
While this is exciting news, both doctors emphasize one very important rule: Never stop or change your medicine on your own!
Always talk to your primary care doctor before making any changes to your prescriptions. Your doctor is your partner in health and will make sure you stay safe every step of the way!
Primary Care at SAC Health!
If you have questions about diabetes, food, or your medicine, the team at SAC Health is always here to help. Reach out to your doctor to build a healthy plan that works best for you!
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SAC Health Answers is meant to provide health education and information, and not a replacement for regular one-on-one checkups or appointments with your health care provider, nor does it establish a doctor-patient relationship.
