5 Simple Lifestyle Changes That Can Help You Reverse Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions of people worldwide. While it’s commonly managed with medication, addressing the root causes through simple lifestyle changes can help reverse diabetes and improve overall health.
I’m Dr. Jonathan Spages, and I’ve helped thousands of patients reverse type 2 diabetes by focusing on these root causes. In this article, I’ll share five impactful lifestyle changes you can implement to take control of your health.
1. Eat a Healthy, Whole-Foods Diet
One of the most effective ways to reverse diabetes is to focus on a nutrient-dense diet. You don’t need a trendy or restrictive plan; instead, avoid processed and high-sugar foods and choose whole, natural options:
- Include: Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and high-fiber foods.
- Avoid: Sugary snacks, refined carbohydrates, and processed foods.
A diet rich in fiber slows the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
For more guidance, explore the 21-Day Diabetic Diet Course for practical tips and meal plans.
2. Incorporate Regular Exercise
Exercise is another cornerstone of reversing diabetes. It improves insulin sensitivity, helping your body use insulin more effectively while reducing excess fat that contributes to insulin resistance.
You don’t need high-intensity workouts to see results. Moderate activities like brisk walking, cycling, or even yoga can make a difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week, ensuring your routine aligns with your health needs based on lab results or medical advice.
3. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Sleep plays a vital role in managing diabetes. Poor sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate blood sugar levels, leading to higher glucose levels and making it harder to control the condition.
To improve sleep quality:
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
- Avoid screens and stimulating activities before bedtime.
- Create a calming sleep environment—cool, dark, and quiet.
Investing in restful sleep can significantly improve your overall health and diabetes management.
4. Manage Stress Effectively
Stress directly impacts blood sugar levels by increasing insulin resistance. Reducing stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help bring your body back into balance.
Effective stress-reducing activities include:
- Meditation or yoga
- Deep breathing exercises
- Spending time in nature
- Enjoying hobbies that bring you joy
Find what works best for you to maintain a calm and focused mind while supporting your physical health.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking significantly worsens diabetes by raising blood sugar levels, reducing insulin sensitivity, and increasing the risk of complications like heart disease and nerve damage.
Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful changes you can make. Seek out resources like smoking cessation programs or speak with a healthcare provider for support in making this life-changing decision.
Conclusion
Reversing type 2 diabetes doesn’t require a one-size-fits-all approach. By addressing the root causes and making simple yet impactful lifestyle changes, you can take control of your health. Start by:
- Eating a whole-foods diet
- Exercising regularly
- Prioritizing sleep
- Managing stress
- Quitting smoking
These changes not only improve blood sugar levels but also enhance your overall quality of life.
Ready to take the next step?
I invite you to watch my Free Diabetes Training Webinar to learn more about reversing diabetes and working with me one-on-one: https://drjspages.com/webinar.
About Dr. Spages
Dr. Jonathan Spages, DC, specializes in Functional Medicine and focuses on uncovering the root causes of chronic conditions like type II diabetes. Using advanced diagnostic testing, Dr. Spages provides tailored solutions that go beyond the conventional medication-first approach, helping patients regain control of their health and live vibrant lives.
Thanks for your help, it’s greatly appreciated
Much Love
of course!! Thanks for making your health a top priority!
sounds great but nothing seems to work for me. Too many complications, I guess. Not for lack of trying so many other things that say they reverse type II.
Hello Dr. Spaces I hope life finds you well. I am have a hard time with my life this. A lot of challenges with neuropathy and diabetes. Can you please help me, thank you in advance.
A month on diet eating l am getting some results. Lost some weight, have more energy and sleeping slightly better. Hope that improves. But the future looks brighter. Taking less insulin also. Thank you Dr Spages
I have recently lost 60 lbs but would still like to lose 30 more!
Sadly, I had an infection that caused my blood sugar to go to 1200!
In order to keep from going into a coma the hospital had to put me on drip insulin which I’m still on now. It’s been 5 months and I want off this merry go round!!
Anything you could suggest would be a God sent!!
I must reverse this condition and everyone has different inputs!!
I am a very high stress person.
My husband is very disabled and I never could take much time for myself!!
I eat well and have cut my portions which with a best for me! No four letter word “diet”!
HELP!!!! I don’t want to shorten my life