Essential Tests for Diabetes Diagnosis and Dietary Guidance - Family Medicine

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

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Dear Mr.
Luka: According to the diagnostic criteria for diabetes set by the American Diabetes Association, a.
Fasting plasma glucose level ≥126 mg/dL after fasting for more than 8 hours, b.
Plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL during a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, c.
HbA1c ≥6.5% (must not have any disproportionate hyperglycemia, and the testing method must comply with the international certification standards of NGSP and DCCT), the above a, b, and c conditions must be confirmed on two separate occasions.
d.
If there are clinical symptoms of diabetes (such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite, weight loss, etc.), a plasma glucose level ≥200 mg/dL on any one occasion is sufficient for diagnosis.
Risk factors for developing diabetes include a family history of diabetes, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, lack of exercise, overeating, alcohol abuse, use of certain medications, poor lifestyle choices, and excessive stress.
Therefore, the current common treatment for type 2 diabetes remains dietary control, regular exercise, and medication.
Regardless of whether insulin is injected, dietary control and regular exercise must be diligently practiced, which involves lifestyle adjustments.
This is essential to prevent macrovascular diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral artery disease; as well as to avoid microvascular complications, including retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy.
In the short term, it will also help prevent diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome.
In practical terms, I personally recommend that you: chew your food thoroughly during meals, avoid overeating (aim for about 80% fullness), and limit high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sugar foods or beverages.
Reduce intake of high-cholesterol and trans fats (often found in creamers, butter, ghee, instant coffee, milk tea, etc.) and high fructose corn syrup (commonly found in commercial beverages, desserts, sodas, pastries, etc.).
These types of foods may be harder for the body to metabolize, may contain high calories without providing a sense of fullness, and can easily lead to increased blood sugar levels.
On the other hand, it is important to develop a habit of regular exercise, such as playing sports, jogging, swimming, or cycling; in fact, taking a good walk for 30-60 minutes after each meal can have very beneficial effects.
In terms of daily living, avoid excessive stress and ensure adequate sleep; this will help reduce the secretion of related hyperglycemic hormones and increase the secretion of leptin, aiding in weight and diabetes control.
When consuming sugar-free beverages or soy milk, be mindful of their calorie content and the amount of preservatives and artificial additives; the same consideration should apply to tea drinks, and I personally do not recommend fully trusting advertising claims.
After all, there are no shortcuts to diabetes management; it requires a synergistic effect of diet, exercise, lifestyle changes, and medication.
If you have further questions, I suggest discussing them in detail with your family physician or visiting an endocrinology clinic for care.

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Reply Date: 2020/04/22