Diabetes and obesity are often connected; being overweight is a primary risk factor in developing type 2 diabetes, and now it turns out that losing weight can help control the disease. After earlier studies showed that weight loss through diet and exercise reduced the risk of contracting diabetes, further research has revealed that diabetics who lose weight can achieve important health gains.

According to the American Diabetes Association, losing 10 to 15 pounds can reduce blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol and reduce stress on the body, especially the legs. It can also increase energy and make moving and breathing easier. It may even reduce or eliminate the need for medication to control blood sugar.

Losing significant weight by dieting and exercising can change the way your body responds to food and medication, altering the usual blood sugar patterns, so it's important to consult a physician before starting such a program to avoid potential problems such as excessively low or high blood sugar levels, cardiovascular issues or other health risks. Nutritionists suggest that a balanced diet is important, so calories should be cut across the board to maintain proper ratios of carbohydrates, fats and proteins; people with diabetes should already be avoiding simple carbohydrates such as sugars and starches, which quickly raise blood sugar.

Different exercises can also vary in their metabolic effects; a knowledgeable trainer can help design a proper exercise plan. Aerobic exercises (running, treadmills, rowing, elliptical machines, etc.) lower blood sugar right away, while weights and other strenuous muscle activities can affect blood sugar levels hours later when the body replenishes its energy storage systems. Glucose levels should be monitored frequently while establishing a new routine.

Visit the Ameican Diabetes Association website at http://www.diabetes.org to find out more about weight loss and diabetes. Support groups, classes and other services are available through many hospitals and clinics; health insurance may even cover some programs. Ask your doctor for more advice ( if he or she hasn't already already suggested this approach!).

(SOURCE: WebMD)