How to reduce the risk of long-term complications with type 2 diabetes

Long-term health risks and the short-term actions that can improve your outlook

Managing type 2 diabetes can feel intimidating at first. There’s a lot to remember. Suddenly you’re learning about new medication names, numbers, and equipment. Not to mention the anxiety around potential long-term complications of a progressive disease.

By taking simple decisive actions on a day-to-day basis, to maintain good blood glucose levels, you can significantly boost your long-term health prospects¹. Here are some helpful tips to get you started!

High blood glucose is toxic to the body². Therefore, a key part of type 2 diabetes management is to keep blood sugar levels in balance.

High blood sugar causes corrosion in the arteries, leading to a build-up of fats and cholesterol that restricts blood flow and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke^2,3.

Maintaining a healthy blood glucose level (or Hb1Ac), around 6.5%, puts you in a strong position to avoid long-term complications⁴.

Read more about cardiovascular risk and type 2 diabetes.

A potential complication linked to diabetes is foot problems, including symptoms like nerve damage and sores that won't heal². This is a result of poor blood flow and, if left untreated, can lead to amputation of the foot⁵.

A good preventative measure is to walk regularly to improve circulation⁶. Ask your doctor to examine your feet during each visit and, if possible, arrange a thorough foot examination every year².

In general, it’s a good idea to walk at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week⁷.

As well as destabilising your blood sugar levels, poor nutrition can also lead to weight problems. This places extra strain on the heart, which is already at higher risk of cardiovascular disease due to type 2 diabetes^8,9.

In conjunction with regular exercise, a good place to start is a healthy meal plan. Book a consultation with a nutritionist who has experience with diabetes. Together, you can co-create a diet that’s healthy but also customised to your personal tastes.

By regulating your diet and physical exercise, and therefore your blood glucose levels, you can help to reduce your chances of developing severe long-term complications¹.

Read more about how to manage type 2 diabetes with diet.

If you need help getting your health under control, speak to your doctor about revising your type 2 diabetes management plan.

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