Diabetic Nutrition Diabetes Management

How to Stop Diabetic Weight Loss

Throughout our lives, our weight has fluctuated up and down. It’s pretty much inevitable!! The problem arises when you start losing weight unexpectedly. This can be a sign of underlying health issues, such as diabetes, that need your attention. This gets even more complicated when you are diagnosed with either Type I or Type II diabetes. This disease interrupts how our bodies utilize glucose, causing a whole host of potential health issues, of which unexplained weight loss can be one. Fortunately, we here at HPFY can give you the facts about this type of weight loss and how to potentially stop diabetic weight loss. 

Wait, Diabetes Causes Weight Loss? 

Who knew that weight loss can actually be bad? Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of Type I diabetes. What happens is that your body doesn’t process glucose properly, and your cells don’t get their required fuel for activity. In this case, you start burning fat and muscle, and you can experience rapid weight loss in diabetes. While this is more common for those suffering from Type I diabetes, it can affect those suffering from Type II diabetes, but it is less common.

Foods that help control diabetic weight loss

Living with either type of diabetes can be challenging, but there are ways to eat properly and maintain a healthy weight. This will require monitoring your blood glucose with a glucose monitor, as well as potentially changing your diet or approach to food. You may have to adapt to different foods or snacks to get your blood sugar under control. Some foods you may want to try include: 

Healthy Carbohydrates	Heart-healthy Fish (rich in omega-3)
Vegetables	Salmon
Fruits	Mackerel
Whole grains	Tuna
Legumes (beans, peas, etc.)	Sardines
Low-fat dairy (milk or cheese)

Fiber-rich foods such as whole grains and nuts can also be a good staple for your diet to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Also, “good fats” such as avocado, canola, olive, and peanut oils, and nuts contain mono/polyunsaturated fats. But go easy, all fats have high calories!! Avoid at all costs foods high in saturated/trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium. 

How to stop diabetic weight loss 

Diet is a great place to start, but what else can you do to head off diabetes weight loss? The most effective way to stop weight loss in diabetes is to establish a plan. Remember, a plan is only as effective as the person following it, so be sure to be diligent and compliant!! Some steps you can take are:

1. Visit your doctor

Unexpected weight loss can be a sign of underlying health issues, and even though it’s commonly caused by diabetes, you should have an exam to be sure. Your physician should be able to run tests and review your medical records to identify the cause of any unexplained weight loss.

2. Medication

Prescription medication, such as insulin, can be the best step toward getting your blood glucose levels under control. Since, due to diabetes, your pancreas doesn’t produce enough of the hormone insulin, prescription insulin can help your cells use glucose more efficiently so it doesn’t build up in your bloodstream.

3. Nutritious, calorie-dense foods

Eating the proper foods that are calorie-dense, nutritious, and, more importantly, low in sugar can stop rapid weight loss in diabetes. This doesn’t mean eating huge meals but focusing on three meals a day with maybe two snacks to maintain blood sugar levels and maintain your caloric needs. The best foods have high fiber and protein to sustain energy levels while keeping blood sugar levels steady.

4. Hi-calorie snacks

One way to snack properly can be by adding a snack between breakfast and lunch and a second between lunch and dinner. This can include smoothies or diabetic protein shakes for weight gain.

5. Exercise

In order to build muscle, exercise is your best option. Muscle makes it easier for your body to make insulin. You should check with your doctor before starting any exercise program and start off easy and build as you progress. Start by lifting light weights or using elastic resistance bands to build muscle.

6. Track your weight/progress

Try to weigh yourself twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Keep track of your weight by recording these numbers in a notebook or spreadsheet, and you will see your progress and the benefits of your effort.

So, how to stop weight loss in diabetes? Well, diabetes weight loss can be managed, but it does require a commitment from those suffering from this disease. There is no easy remedy other than effort and compliance!! Be sure to work with your doctor or even a trainer before starting any exercise program or medication. Stay diligent and healthy!! 

Products That Can Help With Diabetic Weight Management

 

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