Dealing with menopause can be challenging, more so if you are dealing with diabetes. The fluctuating hormone levels can increase insulin resistance, causing erratic blood sugar patterns. But don't fret; understanding and implementing a few strategies can help manage your diabetes during this phase of life effectively.

Prioritise Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

During menopause, you may notice an increase in insulin resistance due to fluctuating oestrogen levels. To handle this, consider checking your blood sugar levels more frequently. Tools like a flash glucose or continuous glucose monitor can aid in tracking your blood sugar levels effectively below 160mg/dL at any point in  the day.

Adapting Your Treatment Plan

As your body undergoes hormonal changes, you might need to adjust your diabetes treatment plan, including possible alterations to medications like metformin. Always remember to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment regime. Also keep in mind about the side effects of all the oral hypoglycemic drugs are causing on the metabolic and dietary aspects.

Embrace a Healthy Diet

A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low-fat, dairy, low glycemic index diet can help manage blood sugar and insulin resistance. It's also crucial to limit processed and refined food consumption.

Stay Active and Keep Moving

Regular exercise not only helps control blood sugar but also maintains bone strength and reduces heart disease risk – two common concerns during menopause. Strive for at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT can help manage menopausal symptoms and may provide benefits for women with diabetes by reducing cardiovascular disease risk and improving glycaemic control. However, this therapy isn't suitable for everyone, so discuss the possibilities and potential risks with your doctor.

Regular Health Checks are Essential

Don't skip important annual diabetes checks like eye exams, foot checks, and screenings for potential complications. Since both diabetes and menopause increase heart disease risk, it's also important to closely monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

With dedicated help from doctors, a healthy lifestyle, and rigorous monitoring of your condition, you can effectively manage diabetes through menopause. An individualised approach considering your specific health factors is crucial. Subtly woven into this management journey, a programme like the Apollo Super 6 can provide all the support you need. Developed by Apollo doctors in India, this programme helps individuals manage type 2 diabetes through lifestyle changes and personalised support.