Managing Type 2 Diabetes in Singapore: 6 Tips for Better Blood Sugar Control

November 7, 2024

Living with Type 2 diabetes can be tough, but as you change the game plan, you can manage your condition effectively and enjoy a healthy life. In Singapore, where diabetes is a common issue (Diabetes Singapore, 2022), it’s important to keep track of your blood sugar levels through a mix of medication and lifestyle changes.

Knowing which type of diabetes you have is key for effective management, as each type has its own treatment and lifestyle needs. Making small changes in your daily routine can really help keep your blood sugar in check. In this article, we’ll provide practical tips for managing Type 2 diabetes and highlight some common medications that can help control high blood sugar levels.

Tips to Manage Type 2 Diabetes

Here are some easy tips for better control:

1. Follow a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet helps keep your blood sugar steady and reduces the risk of complications. Paying attention to what you eat can make it easier to manage your diabetes and stay healthy. Focus on:

• Complex carbohydrates: Choose whole grains like brown rice and oats for stable blood sugar.
• Smaller, more frequent meals: Consuming smaller portions can help avoid spikes.
• Limit sugary drinks: Opt for water or unsweetened beverages to avoid rapid blood sugar increases.

2. Stay Active

Staying active is really important for managing Type 2 diabetes because it helps your body use insulin better and lowers blood sugar levels. Try to do some moderate exercise for about 150 minutes, weekly, like brisk walking or cycling. If you’re just starting out, take it easy and check with your doctor before starting a new exercise plan.

3. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels

Regularly tracking your blood sugar is key to managing diabetes. It helps you understand how food, exercise, and medication impact your levels. Consider a blood sugar monitor watch for real-time readings, or use a glucometer available on our website. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice on how often to check your levels to stay proactive in your management.

4. Take Medications as Prescribed

Medication is often a key part of managing Type 2 diabetes, especially when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to control blood sugar levels. You may try these several types of medications available in Singapore with consultation from your doctor:

Glucophage 1000mg Tablet 120s (Box)

Glucophage (metformin) is commonly used for Type 2 diabetes. It lowers glucose production in the liver and increases insulin sensitivity, usually taken with meals to reduce stomach upset.

Xigduo XR 10/1000mg Tablet 28s (Box)

Xigduo XR combines dapagliflozin and metformin. Dapagliflozin helps remove excess glucose via urine, while metformin reduces liver glucose production, making it effective for lowering blood sugar.

Glyxambi 25/5mg Tablet

Glyxambi contains empagliflozin and linagliptin. Empagliflozin increases glucose excretion through the kidneys, and linagliptin enhances insulin production after meals, helping control blood sugar.

Diabetmin 500mg Tablet 100s (Box)

Diabetmin is a metformin brand that improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar, often used as a first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes, sometimes in combination with other medications.

Diamicron MR 60mg Tablet

Diamicron MR (gliclazide) is a sulfonylurea that boosts insulin production from the pancreas. It’s prescribed for those with high blood sugar despite lifestyle changes, taken once daily in an extended-release form.

Always take your medications as your doctor directs; skipping doses or taking too much can lead to blood sugar problems and complications.

5. Manage Stress

Stress plays a notable impact on blood sugar levels (WebMD, 2023). When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol, which can increase blood sugar levels (Cleveland Clinic, 2021). Find some good ways to reduce your stress, it will help a lot.

Include relaxation techniques in your daily routine, like:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Yoga or tai chi
• Spending time in nature

Doing what you enjoy, making sure you balance out a healthy work-life, may also help.

6. Get Regular Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your doctor are important for keeping track of your diabetes management. Your doctor will check your blood sugar levels, review your medications, and look for any potential problems. Make sure to attend all your appointments and discuss any concerns or changes you notice.

Improve Your Blood Sugar Level

Managing Type 2 diabetes in Singapore means making healthy choices, monitoring your levels, and taking the right medications. By eating a balanced diet, staying active, and following your treatment plan (Mayo Clinic, 2024), you can better control your blood sugar and reduce the risk of complications. Nevertheless, always refer to your doctor before making any plan or changes.

Stay engaged, stay knowledgeable, and take command of your health!