Diabetes management requires a balanced approach that includes both medication and dietary adjustments. Effective management can prevent complications and improve quality of life. Below, we’ll explore how to manage diabetes through medication and diet and how full-service prescription assistance programs and prescription assistance organizations can help ease the financial burden.

Understanding Diabetes Management

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Proper management involves maintaining blood sugar levels within a target range. This can be achieved through a combination of medication, diet, exercise, and regular monitoring.

The Role of Medication

For many people with diabetes, medication is a crucial part of management. Medications help control blood sugar levels, either by increasing insulin production, improving insulin sensitivity, or decreasing glucose production in the liver.

Types of Medications:

• Insulin: Vital for Type 1 diabetes and often necessary for Type 2 diabetes. It helps the body use glucose for energy.
• Oral Medications: Includes metformin, sulfonylureas, and DPP-4 inhibitors. These help regulate blood sugar levels in various ways.
• Non-Insulin Injectables: Medications like GLP-1 receptor agonistswhich aid in controlling blood sugar levels by mimicking natural hormones.
• Adherence to Medication: Consistently taking prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider is critical to managing diabetes effectively. Missing doses can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of complications.
• Prescription Assistance Programs: Full-service prescription assistance programs and prescription assistance organizations can help reduce the financial burden of diabetes medications. These programs offer support by providing medications at a lower cost or even for free to eligible individuals. They are especially beneficial for those who are uninsured or underinsured.

The Importance of Diet

Diet plays an equally important role in managing diabetes. A well-planned diet helps keep blood sugar levels stable and prevents spikes or drops that can cause complications.

• Balanced Nutrition: Incorporate a variety of foods that provide essential nutrients. Focus on whole grains, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stay away from processed meals and reduce the intake of sugars and refined carbohydrates.
• Portion Control: Managing portion sizes helps control calorie intake, which is crucial for staying at a healthy weight—a key factor in managing Type 2 diabetes.
• Meal Timing: Eating at regular intervals throughout the day helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Skipping meals or going long periods without eating can lead to dangerous drops in blood sugar.

A person using a glucometer device to check their blood sugar level

Take control of your diabetes management with Advocate My Meds. Our full-service prescription assistance programs and prescription assistance organizations are here to ensure you never have to choose between your health and your finances. Whether you need help accessing insulin, oral medications, or non-insulin injectables, don’t let the cost of medication stand in your way—contact Advocate My Meds today! We also provide information on Lilly Cares patient assistance and Boehringer patient assistance to further support your needs.