Role of Lifestyle Modification in Glycemic Control and Prevention of Complications among Patients with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia resulting from insulin resistance, progressive impairment of pancreatic β-cell function, or a combination of both. The increasing prevalence of T2DM is closely associated with modifiable lifestyle factors including unhealthy dietary patterns, physical inactivity, sedentary behavior, overweight and obesity. Persistent hyperglycemia can result in microvascular and macrovascular complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, cardiovascular system and lower limbs. Lifestyle modification is therefore an important component of comprehensive diabetes management and prevention of disease-related complications.