Mixed
Combining lifestyle changes (diet and exercise) with pharmacological treatment is necessary to achieve long-term metabolic control and reduce macro/microvascular complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
For Type 2 Diabetes, medication alone is rarely enough for long-term health. You must combine it with diet and exercise. If you are overweight, aim for a daily calorie deficit of 500-1000 kcal. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (like brisk walking) plus 2-3 days of strength training. If you have eye or foot complications, consult a professional to tailor the exercise safely. Metformin is usually the first drug used, but lifestyle is the foundation.
To achieve good metabolic control in diabetes and keep long term, a combination of changes in lifestyle and pharmacological treatment is necessary. Achieving near-normal glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) significantly decreases risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications.
Why this rating
Based on multiple RCTs (e.g., UKPDS, LOOK AHEAD) and guidelines cited.
Source
Update on the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Juan José Marín-Peñalver et al. · World Journal of Diabetes · 2016
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