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Diabetes and metabolic syndrome

According to the Canadian Diabetes Association there are 11 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes today. Diabetes-related complications can be very serious and even life-threatening. Properly managing blood sugar levels reduces the risk of developing these complications. Read our resources for more information.

Do self-management programs for diabetes really work?
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Prediabetes? How to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes
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Type 2 diabetes: Can it be reversed?
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110 Show All 29Blog Posts 54Evidence Summaries 27Web Resource Ratings 5Patient Decision Aids

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  • Evidence Summary

    Self-monitoring reduces blood-sugar levels in patients with non-insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology (2018)
  • Evidence Summary

    Culturally appropriate health education for people in ethnic minority groups with type 2 diabetes mellitus

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Self-monitoring of blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are not using insulin

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2012)
  • Evidence Summary

    Culturally appropriate health education for type 2 diabetes mellitus in ethnic minority groups

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2008)
  • Evidence Summary

    Combination of exercise and diet has small effects in reducing risk factors for type 2 diabetes

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Text-messaging interventions help people quit smoking and improve medication use among HIV positive

    Rating 5 out of 5 stars
    PLoS Medicine (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Medical Nutrition therapy can improve blood sugar levels in adults living with prediabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2023)
  • Evidence Summary

    Treatment of periodontitis for glycaemic control in people with diabetes mellitus.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2022)
  • Evidence Summary

    A variety of dietary patterns can improve body weight and average blood sugar levels in people living with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice (2023)
  • Evidence Summary

    Vitamin D supplementation of 1000 IU or more per day may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in patients with prediabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism (2020)
  • Evidence Summary

    Mobile phone apps for lifestyle modification can reduce average blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    JMIR: Journal of Medical Internet Research Mhealth and Uhealth (2019)
  • Evidence Summary

    Traditional Chinese medicine-based exercises tai chi and ba duan jin may improve biomedical and psychosocial well-being in adults with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Nursing Studies (2018)
  • Evidence Summary

    Vitamin D supplementation can improve blood sugar control among some people living with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Metabolism: Clinical & Experimental (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Diet, physical activity or both for prevention or delay of type 2 diabetes mellitus and its associated complications in people at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Vegetarian diets, particularly vegan diets, help with weight loss.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Journal of General Internal Medicine (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Peer support programs help lower blood sugar in people with diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMC Public Health (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

     Self-management of Type 2 diabetes via smartphone applications may have beneficial effects on blood sugar levels

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    PLoS One (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Home visits by healthcare providers help diabetic patients manage their condition

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Journal of Diabetes Investigation (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Mobile phone apps can help adults with Type 2 diabetes to control their glycemic levels

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes Care (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    High intensity aerobic exercise lowers blood sugar levels and improves fitness in people with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cardiovascular Diabetology (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Interactive self-management programs help people with poorly controlled diabetes decrease blood sugar levels

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Glucose targets for preventing diabetic kidney disease and its progression.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    In the short-term, low-carb diets decrease blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Yoga combined with other diabetes management approaches improves blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Exercise improves balance, lower limb strength and gait in older adults with diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Low-calorie diet and exercise improve blood sugar levels in people without impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice (2017)
  • Evidence Summary

    Leisure-time physical activities – especially yoga – lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Mobile phone apps improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes Care (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Additional nurse management leads to moderate improvements on some outcomes for patients with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    International Journal of Evidence-Based Healthcare (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    In adults with type 2 diabetes, different glucose-lowering drugs have similar effects. Metformin manages blood sugar levels better than, or as well as, other drugs.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    JAMA (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Aspirin does not prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with diabetes who do not already have CVD

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabet Med (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Insulin monotherapy compared with the addition of oral glucose-lowering agents to insulin for people with type 2 diabetes already on insulin therapy and inadequate glycaemic control.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    In diabetes, the benefits of BP-lowering drugs depend on systolic BP being 140 mm Hg or more before starting treatment

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMJ (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people with type 2 diabetes, intensive treatment that aims to lower blood sugar levels reduces nonfatal heart attacks and doesn’t increase deaths

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabet Med (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Health education for ethnic minority groups with Type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetic Medicine: A journal of the British Diabetic Association (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Diet and exercise promotion programs reduce risk of type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Annals of Internal Medicine (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Several drugs reduce pain related to diabetic neuropathy in the short-term

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Ann Intern Med (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Diet and exercise programs may help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Follow-up consultations via telemedicine may be an effective alternative to face-to-face consultations for patients suffering from foot ulcerations

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BioMed Central Health Services Research (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Self-management programs can improve health outcomes in older adults with diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Diabetic Medicine (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Blood pressure control for diabetic retinopathy.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2015)
  • Evidence Summary

    Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor for diabetic macular oedema.

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people with type 1 diabetes, detemir or glargine improved blood sugar control (HbA1c) by a small amount and reduced weight gain compared with once-daily NPH

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMJ (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Lifestyle changes lower rates of type 2 diabetes among adults at increased risk, but may not prevent complications in those already diagnosed

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Annals of Internal Medicine (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 agonists plus insulin controls blood sugar levels better than insulin or other treatments alone

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Lancet (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    Collaborative care can improve the health of adults who suffer from both depression and diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    BMJ Open (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people with, or at risk of, heart disease, fatty acid supplements do not prevent heart attacks or death

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Ann Intern Med (2014)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people with diabetes, group medical visits reduce HbA1 levels more than usual care

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    CMAJ (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    In people with 2 to 4 diabetes risk factors, high-dose atorvastatin reduced cardiovascular risk but increased new-onset diabetes compared with low-dose statins

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    J Am Coll Cardiol (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    Counseling with activity monitors improves physical activity and health outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Annals of Medicine (2013)
  • Evidence Summary

    ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure prevent kidney disease and death in people with diabetes and normal kidney function

    Rating 4 out of 5 stars
    Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2012)
  • Evidence Summary

    For type 2 diabetes, canagliflozin lowers blood sugar levels more than other drugs in its class but increases risk of hypoglycemia and genital infections

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Diabetes Obes Metab (2016)
  • Evidence Summary

    Strategies to increase the level of physical activity among persons with Type 2 diabetes are generally effective

    Rating 3 out of 5 stars
    Frontiers in Public Health (2013)
  • Blog Post

    Dietitian-delivered nutrition therapy for prediabetes

    Research investigates the role dietitians play in helping people living with prediabetes.
  • Blog Post

    Living with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes? 3 areas to consider!

    From oral health to nutrition, research points to several areas of focus that we can work on to help lower blood sugar levels.
  • Blog Post

    Keeping your gums healthy to help manage diabetes?

    Living with diabetes? Research explores how treating gum disease impacts blood sugar levels.
  • Blog Post

    Grey nomads: Aging optimally on the road

    For more than two decades, Australia has seen a growing community of "grey nomads" who travel independently and for extended periods in their caravan or motor home. A nomadic lifestyle can reveal some challenges when it comes to chronic disease management. What lessons can we learn from Australia's grey nomads with type 1 and 2 diabetes?
  • Blog Post

    ‘Food for thought’: Can diet protect cardiovascular health in people with type 2 diabetes?

    Living with type 2 diabetes? Consider how dietary changes can help reduce cardiovascular risk factors.
  • Blog Post

    4 evidence-based benefits of health-related mobile apps

    Is there an app for that? It is highly likely when it comes to health-related matters. Research suggests the following may be positively impacted by mobile health apps: weight management, blood sugar control, mental well-being, and physical activity.
  • Blog Post

    3 evidence-based strategies for foot health

    Research shows there are many benefits to promoting the health of our feet.
  • Blog Post

    Preventing type 2 diabetes with the “sunshine” vitamin?

    Prevention, prevention, prevention. Can vitamin D supplementation help keep type 2 diabetes at bay? Research findings appear to be positive for certain populations.
  • Blog Post

    4 Evidence-based benefits of seeking peer support

    Can turning to our peers hold benefits for our health? You’ll be happy to know that research lends support to the use of this strategy.
  • Blog Post

    Mobile phone apps for blood sugar control

    Are you interested in the evidence behind the use of mobile phone apps for blood sugar control? This strategy holds promise for those with type 2 diabetes, but its effectiveness for those with prediabetes or type 1 diabetes requires further investigation.
  • Blog Post

    5 research-based ways to support those living with type 2 diabetes

    Are you looking for strategies to add to your diabetes management plan? Consider these 5 research-based techniques.
  • Blog Post

    Fact or fiction: Research reveals the truth about common supplements

    There are many claims out there about the health benefits of dietary supplements, but not all claims are backed by evidence. Talk to your health care provider about which supplements may be beneficial to you.
  • Blog Post

    The Portfolio diet: An investment in your heart health?

    When it comes to lowering your cholesterol, eating a “portfolio” of cholesterol-lowing foods may be a good way to invest in your heart health.
  • Blog Post

    Traditional Chinese Medicine: A supplement to modern diabetes management?

    Tai Chi and ba duan jin are Traditional Chinese Medicine practices that have been around for thousands of years. New research brings these age-old practices into the present as possible additions to standard type 2 diabetes care.
  • Blog Post

    Vitamin D: A possible ally in the fight against diabetes

    Could vitamin D supplementation help you improve your blood sugar control? Research shows promise for some people living with type 2 diabetes.
  • Blog Post

    Yoga for diabetes: breathe, relax, stretch…and reduce your blood sugar levels?

    Are you a yogi? If not, consider rolling out your mat and giving yoga a try. Research shows that adding yoga to your diabetes management plan may be an effective way to keep your blood sugar under control, and can also help improve blood pressure, body mass index, and cholesterol levels.
  • Blog Post

    Telehealth: A new fix for an old problem – helping people with chronic conditions take better care of themselves

    Is chronic illness getting you down? Telehealth is a promising way for you to connect with your health care provider and better manage your condition.
  • Blog Post

    Living with diabetes? Your peers can help!

    Do you struggle with managing your diabetes? If so, research shows that turning to your peers can improve your health.
  • Blog Post

    Oh my veggies! Can a vegetarian diet help you lose weight?

    With the numbers of overweight and obese adults on the rise globally, people are looking to different types of diets for solutions. To shed pounds, going lacto-ovo vegetarian or vegan may help.
  • Blog Post

    Struggling with your weight? Get active and improve your health with high intensity interval training!

    Short on time? Research suggests that high-intensity interval training can improve cardiovascular and metabolic health in people who are overweight or obese.
  • Blog Post

    The diabetes epidemic: Don’t become a statistic!

    The global prevalence of diabetes continues to rise. Don’t become a statistic with the help of these simple lifestyle changes.
  • Blog Post

    3 research-based benefits of yoga for healthy aging

    Want to age well? Consider making yoga part of your regular activities.
  • Blog Post

    No one left out: Breaking down cultural barriers to support healthy aging

    Not everyone has the same opportunity to access health promotion programs that can save lives and prevent serious illness. Culturally customized materials and approaches can help.
  • Blog Post

    Do self-management programs for diabetes really work?

    Managing diabetes can be challenging for anyone, but for older adults with multiple health and age-related conditions, it can be especially difficult. Dr. Diana Sherifali weighs in on how self-management programs can be adapted to best support older adults with diabetes.
  • Blog Post

    Telemedicine for foot care: Using technology to get back on your feet

    One study suggests that patients receiving follow-up care for diabetic foot or leg ulcers via telemedicine (online or by phone) may spend less time travelling without any negative effect on their health and lower costs to the healthcare system. Dr. Perry Mayer – an expert in diabetic foot care – offers his perspective on the issue.
  • Blog Post

    Diabetic foot care: Awareness and prevention are vital

    People with diabetes are at significantly higher risk for foot disease including ulcers that can lead to serious health problems. A leading expert in diabetic foot care provides important facts and strategies for prevention and protection.
  • Blog Post

    New drug may be 'next big thing' in type 2 diabetes management

    A new drug may improve blood sugar control for people with Type 2 diabetes, while helping them avoid weight gain.
  • Blog Post

    Does wearable technology help with weight loss and other health goals?

    Wearable technology encourages people to be more active (at least in the short term), which can lead to weight loss and other health benefits.
  • Blog Post

    Collaborative care benefits adults suffering from depression and diabetes

    People struggling to cope with both diabetes and depression are often at increased health risk. A collaborative care approach can reduce symptoms of both diseases and promote improved overall health.
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