Embracing Lifestyle Medicine: My Journey with Diabetes

 Embracing Lifestyle Medicine: My Journey with Diabetes

When I was diagnosed with diabetes,  I decided to take control of my health and explore lifestyle medicine, a holistic approach to managing chronic conditions through lifestyle changes. This decision led me to Dr. Aminmohamed Ladak in Etobicoke, a compassionate and knowledgeable lifestyle medicine doctor who has been instrumental in my journey.

What is Lifestyle Medicine?

Lifestyle medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on using therapeutic lifestyle interventions as the primary modality to treat chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. The core principles of lifestyle medicine include a whole-food, plant-predominant eating pattern, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections.

My Decision to Seek Lifestyle Medicine

As a vegan, I was already familiar with the benefits of a plant-based diet. However, managing diabetes requires a more comprehensive approach. I wanted to find a doctor who could guide me through the complexities of diabetes management while aligning with my vegan lifestyle. That's when I discovered Dr. Aminmohamed Ladak.

Meeting Dr. Aminmohamed Ladak

Dr. Ladak's approach to medicine resonated with me. He didn't just prescribe medications; he emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes and provided me with the tools and knowledge to make sustainable improvements. His practice is rooted in evidence-based, whole-person care, which means he considers all aspects of my health, including my dietary choices and lifestyle habits.

The Impact of Lifestyle Changes

Under Dr. Ladak's guidance, I made significant changes to my lifestyle. I focused on eating a balanced, nutrient-dense vegan diet, incorporating regular physical activity into my routine, and prioritizing restorative sleep. 

The Power of Veganism in Diabetes Management

Veganism has played a crucial role in my diabetes management. I have been a vegetarian for over 25 years and have dabbled with veganism on and off. However, I have committed to a serious plant-based lifestyle for the last 5 years. Despite this, I used to eat a lot of junk food. Under Dr. Ladak's guidance, my biggest change has been adopting a more structured eating pattern: I now start my day with a nutritious breakfast, have my largest meal at lunch, and enjoy a very light dinner. A whole-food, plant-based diet is rich in fibre, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, which help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications. Dr. Ladak encouraged me to continue with my vegan lifestyle while ensuring I received the necessary vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, through supplements and fortified foods.