In this type of diabetes it is essential to keep an eye on blood sugar levels and take treatment. Poor control of blood sugar can incur risk of damage to the blood vessels and nerves, with problems such as deterioration in eyesight, stroke, kidney disease and infections. For the overweight, simply eating less and losing weight can be enough to allow insulin to work more effectively. The diet for diabetes is not a special diet, it simply emphasises healthy eating habits that everyone should follow. Regular exercise is also important.
Medication is also important for the control of non-insulin dependent diabetes.
However, this does not mean a healthy diet can be abandoned in the hope that the tablets will do the work - both are necessary. It may take some juggling of the different types of medication available to get the right combination for you. There may be side effects, but these are usually minor or pose little problem. Sometimes diet and tablets are not enough Sometimes diet and tablets are not enough to control your blood sugar and you may need insulin. Many people manage for years on tablets alone but find as they get older they need to start insulin injections.