1. Change your diet
Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Choose non-fat dairy and lean meats. Limit foods high in sugar and fat. Watch your carbohydrate intake as they turn into sugar.

2. Get more exercise
Make exercise a part of your daily routine.

3. Watch your levels
Type 2 diabetes is typically associated with high or imbalanced levels of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol. Monitor all three as closely as possible.

4. Manage your stress
When you're stressed, your blood sugar levels go up. Relieve stress through deep breathing, yoga or hobbies that relax you.

5. Stop smoking
Everyone knows that smoking is hazardous to your health, but for people with type 2 diabetes, the harmful effects can be even more severe.

6. Watch your alcohol
It may be easier to control your blood sugar if you don’t get too much beer, wine, and liquor. If you choose to drink, don't overdo it.

7. See your doctor regularly
Regular appointments with your doctor every 6 months or so are an excellent way to help manage diabetes and boost your longevity.