From the Guidelines
Non-pharmacological measures for controlling type 2 diabetes include dietary modifications, regular physical activity, weight management, stress reduction, and adequate sleep, with a focus on at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly and a weight loss of 5-10% of body weight. The following measures are recommended:
- Dietary changes: reducing refined carbohydrates and sugars, increasing fiber intake through vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, and following a Mediterranean or DASH diet pattern 1
- Regular physical activity: at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, combined with resistance training 2-3 times per week, as exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps maintain muscle mass 1
- Weight management: losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve blood glucose control by reducing insulin resistance 1
- Stress reduction: techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help lower cortisol levels, which otherwise can raise blood glucose
- Adequate sleep: aiming for 7-8 hours of quality sleep nightly is important since sleep deprivation disrupts glucose metabolism and increases insulin resistance Additional measures include:
- Reducing sedentary time and increasing daily physical activities 1
- Incorporating flexibility exercises into the physical activity routine 1
- Maintaining weight loss for 5 years or more to sustain improvements in glycemic control and quality of life 1 These measures work synergistically to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and help maintain stable blood glucose levels without medication.
From the Research
Non-Pharmacological Measures for Type 2 Diabetes Control
The following are non-pharmacological measures for the control of type 2 diabetes:
- Lifestyle intervention using physical exercise 2
- Modification of nutrition intakes 2
- Medical nutrition interventions 3
- Change of lifestyles 3
- Bariatric surgery 3
- Dietary modification 4
- Increased physical activity 4
- Microbiota-based therapy 4
- Very low-energy diet (VLED) 5
- Intensive group-based lifestyle program 5
- Occupational-therapist conducted support program 5
- Peer support program 5
Additional Considerations
These non-pharmacological measures can be used alone or in combination with pharmacotherapy to achieve optimal glycemic control and reduce the risk of complications associated with type 2 diabetes 2, 3, 4. Factors such as personal or body-related, clinical, medication-related, and behavioral factors can also impact glycemic control 6.