Tips for Getting off Diabetes Medication

If you’re one of over 34 million Americans who have diabetes, you’re likely dependent on diabetes medication to control blood glucose levels. However, taking daily medication can quickly become burdensome and expensive. It may also cause side effects, so it’s common to wonder what it takes to get off diabetes medication without risking your well-being.

Getting off diabetes medication without health complications depends on your ability to maintain healthy blood glucose levels naturally. It also requires working with a medical professional who can ensure that you are safe to discontinue your dependence on medication without risking your overall health. 

The diabetes specialists at Macomb Medical Clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan, can help you manage your condition and determine whether getting off diabetes medication is safe for you. After a thorough examination and assessment of your condition, your medical provider can help you devise a plan for reducing your dependence on diabetes drugs. This may involve lowering medication in stages or even stopping it for a while in a trial run to test whether you’re ready to make the transition.

It’s important to understand that you shouldn’t stop taking diabetes medication without medical supervision. While everyone’s situation is unique, find out what is usually required to reduce diabetes symptoms and discontinue diabetes medication. 

Meet target criteria

Living without diabetes medication is usually appropriate only for people without diabetes complications. If you don’t have other health issues, you can usually discontinue diabetes medication if you meet the following criteria: 

• An A1C less than 7%
• A fasting morning blood glucose under 130 mg/dL
• A blood glucose level below 180 mg/dL at random or after a meal

Lose weight

If you’re overweight, losing just 5-10% of your body weight can deliver benefits that exceed a change in your appearance. Shedding pounds can improve your cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and reduce blood sugar levels. These changes can also lower your risk of stroke and heart attack. 

Maintain a healthy diet

Follow established guidelines for a healthy diet. This typically includes the following recommendations:

• Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
• Get fats from nuts, avocados, olive oil, and other healthy sources
• Get high-quality proteins from beans, eggs, and unsweetened yogurt
• Avoid refined carbohydrates and foods with high sugar content
• Drink water instead of soda, fruit juices, and alcohol
• Learn to read labels to identify healthy foods and hidden sugars

Exercise

Exercising 30 minutes a day can lower blood sugar levels, decrease insulin resistance, and help regulate your cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Doubling your commitment and exercising 60 minutes a day can help accelerate weight loss. 

Working with a personal trainer or another exercise professional can help you make the most of your workouts. You’re more likely to stick to an exercise regimen if you make a commitment to a workout partner.

Monitor blood sugar regularly

You can determine daily blood sugar patterns by testing your blood sugar levels regularly throughout the day. This can help you identify the circumstances when your blood sugar levels are at their highest. 

Identifying these patterns can help you plan your daily activities and meals to keep your blood sugar levels. 

Prioritize quality sleep

You need a minimum of six hours of sleep daily to change the balance of blood sugar and insulin. Encourage a good night’s sleep by avoiding spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol. 

Establish a sleep schedule and environment that encourages a restful sleep. This can include falling asleep and rising at the same time daily. Sleeping in a dark, quiet, and cool room can support a good night’s sleep without disturbances.

Find out more about what you need to do to get off diabetes medication. Schedule a consultation with our team by calling our office today.