If you or someone you love has type 2 diabetes, you’re part of a larger community—more than 18 million Americans are living with the condition.
For many, managing blood sugar can feel like an uphill battle every day. In fact, a report from the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) found that two out of three people with type 2 diabetes weren’t fully controlling their blood sugar levels.
However, controlling blood sugar is essential because it can prevent serious health complications down the road. Uncontrolled diabetes can raise the risk of serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, nerve issues, and even vision loss. But now, there’s hope.
New strategies are available to help people manage type 2 diabetes more effectively. One such method is the “6.5 Steps Toward Better Blood Sugar Control,” created by fitness coach Bob Harper from NBC’s The Biggest Loser, in collaboration with a group of diabetes specialists. These steps are designed to be simple, practical, and motivational—things anyone can work into their daily routine.
Bob Harper, who has worked with many individuals living with diabetes, emphasizes that managing type 2 diabetes is about finding the right tools and staying motivated: “Through my years of coaching and training, I’ve worked with many people with type 2 diabetes and seen how hard it can be to live with this disease. But I learned that anyone can change their life. It’s all about discovering the right tools and staying motivated.”
Here are the 6.5 Steps to better blood sugar control:
1. Healthy Eating
Eating well is a cornerstone of diabetes management. A balanced diet can help prevent complications like heart disease and stroke. Focus on nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (chicken, fish), beans, fruits, and nonfat dairy. It’s not just about what you eat—it’s also about portion sizes.
2. Physical Activity
Exercise is a powerful method for managing blood sugar levels. It helps with weight management and lowers the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Small activities, like taking the stairs or walking with a friend, can make a big difference in blood sugar control.
3. Blood Sugar Monitoring
Monitoring your blood sugar is key to understanding how your body is responding to food, exercise, and medications. There are two types of tests:
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Self-monitoring: You can check your blood sugar levels at any time.
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A1C test: This test measures your average blood sugar over the past two to three months. The target for most people with type 2 diabetes is an A1C level of 6.5% or less.
4. Medication
For many people with type 2 diabetes, medications are necessary to help regulate blood sugar levels. Some may require multiple medications that work in different ways to keep glucose levels in check.
5. Team Up with Your Health Care Provider
Working closely with your doctor or health care team is essential. Think of them as partners in your diabetes journey. Together, you can develop a plan that works for your unique needs.
These 6.5 steps are designed to help simplify diabetes management, making it easier to stay on track. By focusing on a healthy lifestyle, regular monitoring, and proper medication, you can better control your blood sugar and reduce the risks of complications.
