By Lisa Gonzalez, APRN-BC
Formerly referred to as “adult-onset diabetes mellitus,” Type 2 Diabetes has long been associated with high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and a deficiency in insulin production. Traditionally, this condition primarily affected adults over the age of 45. However, with the alarming rise in childhood obesity in the United States, Type 2 diabetes has become increasingly prevalent across all age groups, although it remains most common among older adults.
Causes of Type 2 Diabetes
The primary causes of Type 2 diabetes are obesity and a lack of physical activity, with genetic factors also playing a role. Notably, this type of diabetes is largely preventable, and there are several strategies individuals can adopt to reduce their risk of a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes
1. Lose Excess Weight: The American Diabetes Association recommends individuals with prediabetes to shed 7-10% of their body weight, significantly reducing the risk of developing diabetes. Greater weight loss yields even more substantial benefits.
2. Get Moving: Regular exercise aids in weight loss, lowers blood sugar levels, and enhances the body’s insulin utilization. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic activity daily.
3. Eat Healthy: Cultivating a lifelong habit of healthy eating involves choosing nutritious foods and managing portion sizes. A recommended dietary approach includes dedicating half the plate to fruits and vegetables, one-fourth to whole grains, and one-fourth to proteins like fish or lean meat.
Treating Type 2 Diabetes
For individuals already diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, effective treatment involves the management of blood sugar levels. Many patients can accomplish this by adhering to the prevention measures outlined above. Nevertheless, in cases where diet and exercise prove insufficient, medications may be necessary.
Diabetes Medications
There are over 100 different diabetes medications available today. One of the most commonly prescribed oral medications is Metformin, a time-tested treatment for Type 2 diabetes. If Metformin does not suffice, various other oral and injectable medications are at a physician’s disposal. Recent advancements have introduced weekly injectable medications that assist in weight loss and hemoglobin A1C reduction.
Injectable Medications: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Among these innovations are GLP-1 receptor agonists, non-insulin medications prescribed in combination with exercise and other diabetes medications. These medications not only lower blood sugar levels and hemoglobin A1C but also aid in weight loss. Furthermore, they offer additional health benefits by improving blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and beta-cell functions.
Common medications in the GLP-1 agonists class include:
. Dulaglutide (Trulicity) (weekly)
. Exenatide extended release (Bydureon bcise) (weekly)
. Exenatide (Byetta) (twice daily)
. Semaglutide (Ozempic) (weekly)
. Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda) (daily)
. Lixisenatide (Adlyxin) (daily)
. Semaglutide (Rybelsus) (taken orally once daily)
Results
Studies conducted by the Mayo Clinic have demonstrated the efficacy of these GLP-1 drugs. Weight loss can vary depending on the specific drug used and the dosage. On average, individuals using liraglutide lost approximately 10.5 to 15.8 pounds, while those taking semaglutide, alongside lifestyle changes, achieved a remarkable 33.7-pound weight loss, compared to a mere 5.7 pounds in the control group.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition closely associated with obesity and a lack of exercise. While these newly developed medications offer promising results in managing the disease, it is essential to emphasize that they are most effective when integrated into a holistic approach that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise. As we navigate the changing landscape of Type 2 diabetes, a multifaceted strategy remains the most effective means of prevention and treatment.
At Soleil Health and Wellness, we believe that true health and beauty are intertwined, forming the foundation for a fulfilling and vibrant life. Led by Nurse Practitioner Lisa Gonzalez, APRN-BC, our practice is dedicated to providing exceptional care and transformative services that empower our patients to unlock their full potential. With a focus on holistic well-being, cutting-edge treatments, and personalized care, we strive to build lifelong relationships with those we serve.
Lisa Gonzalez, APRN-BC
Lisa Gonzalez is a compassionate and highly skilled Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). After graduating with honors from Nova Southeastern University, Lisa’s remarkable journey has been marked by both didactic and clinical achievements. Her extensive training includes aesthetic procedures such as Botox/Dysport injections, Dermal Fillers, Microneedling, and Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections. With experience in Primary Care, Acute Care, and Skilled Home Care, Lisa was drawn to the profession by her deep desire to serve others and build lifelong relationships with her patients.
Soleil Health & Wellness
239.893.7420
www.soleilhealthwellness.com
840 111th Ave N Ste 10, Naples, FL 34108