Dr.Alok Purohit (PhD), Health Coach, Diabetes and obesity educator

Diabetes is a complex chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the body’s inability to properly regulate blood sugar levels, which can lead to a range of complications. Understanding diabetes and how to manage it can be challenging for patients, and this is where health coaches can play an important role. We will discuss the factors that make diabetes complicated and difficult to comprehend for patients, and the ways in which health coaches can help patients navigate the challenges of diabetes management.

Complexity of Diabetes One of the primary factors that make diabetes complicated is the complexity of the disease itself. There are two main types of diabetes – type 1 and type 2 – each with their own unique characteristics and management strategies. The pathophysiology of diabetes is also complex, involving a range of hormones, enzymes, and cellular processes that can be difficult for patients to understand. Furthermore, diabetes management requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes nutrition, exercise, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Daily fluctuating blood sugar levels, anxiety and stress, limited time/window with the physician and testing labs, impact of changes in diet, exercise often can be debilitating for most patients at least in the beginning.This complexity can be overwhelming for patients and can make it difficult for them to effectively manage their diabetes.

Lack of Education and Awareness Another factor that makes diabetes difficult to comprehend is a lack of education and awareness. Many patients with diabetes may not fully understand the disease, including its causes, symptoms, and management strategies. This can lead to confusion, frustration, and a lack of engagement with diabetes management. In addition, there is often a stigma associated with diabetes, which can lead to feelings of shame and isolation for patients.

Role of Health Coaches Health coaches can play an important role in helping patients navigate the challenges of diabetes management. Health coaches are trained professionals who work with patients to help them develop the skills and knowledge they need to manage their diabetes effectively. They can help patients understand the complexity of the disease, provide education and awareness, and help patients develop practical strategies for managing their diabetes. Health coaches can also provide emotional support and help patients develop a positive mindset towards diabetes management. Enough researches indicate the evidence of better health outcomes in patients supported by health coaches.

Health coaches can work with patients in a range of settings, including clinics, hospitals, and community organizations. They can provide one-on-one coaching, group coaching, and online coaching, depending on the needs and preferences of the patient. Health coaches can also work collaboratively with healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

By working together with healthcare providers, health coaches can help patients with diabetes achieve optimal health and well being.

Visit https://www.alokpurohit.com/  and/or write to us on alokpurohit.com@gmail.com for once in a lifetime, personalized diabetes and obesity coaching which can help you learn more about your lifestyle conditions, reduce stress and anxiety through non medicinal, preventive/corrective lifestyle interventions and self empowerment.

References:

1. American Diabetes Association. (2021). Diabetes basics. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications
2. American Diabetes Association. (2021). Standards of medical care in diabetes – 2021. Retrieved from https://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/44/Supplement_1
3. Diabetes UK. (2021). Understanding diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/diabetes-the-basics/what-is-diabetes
4. Funnell, M. M., & Anderson, R. M. (2004). Empowerment and self-management of diabetes. Clinical diabetes, 22(3), 123-127. doi: 10.2337/diaclin.22.3.123
5. Garvey, K. C., Wolpert, H. A., & Laffel, L. M. (2015). Health care transition in young adults with type 1 diabetes: barriers to timely establishment of adult diabetes care. Endocrine practice, 21(6), 685-693. doi: 10.4158/EP15613.OR
6. Powers, M. A., Bardsley, J., Cypress, M., Duker, P., Funnell, M. M., Fischl, A. H., … & Vivian, E. (2015). Diabetes self-management education and support in type 2 diabetes: a joint position statement of the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Diabetes care, 38(7), 1372-1382. doi: 10.2337/dc15-0730