What you should know about diabetes

 What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world.  According to WHO, around 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, and the number is increasing rapidly. 

 

Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose. Hyperglycemia, also called raised blood glucose or raised blood sugar, is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes and over time leads to serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels. This can cause a range of health problems if not managed properly.

 

In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of diabetes, their causes, preventive measures, treatment options, and what you can do to take control of diabetes.

 

Information on Diabetes, the types, and what you can do to reduce your risk

 

Types of Diabetes

According to CDC, there are three main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and Gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes also known as juvenile diabetes,  usually develops during childhood or adolescence. In this condition, the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Without insulin, the body cannot convert sugar into energy, and the sugar builds up in the blood, leading to a range of complications.

Type 2 diabetes 

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to meet the body's needs. This type of diabetes is often associated with lifestyle factors, such as being overweight, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet.

Infographic of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes

Gestational diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when a   person is less sensitive to insulin. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),  2-10%  of pregnancies develop gestational diabetes each year.   People who are overweight during early pregnancy are at a   higher risk of developing this condition. The CDC adds that about  50% of women with gestational diabetes will later develop type 2 diabetes.  

 

Causes of Diabetes

The causes of diabetes vary depending on the type of diabetes.

 

Type 1 Diabetes: The exact cause of Type 1 diabetes is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease. Genetic factors may also play a role in the development of Type 1 diabetes.

 

Type 2 Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is usually caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Being overweight or obese, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet can all increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include age, family history of diabetes, and certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

 

Gestational Diabetes: Gestational diabetes is caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy that can affect insulin sensitivity. Women who are overweight or obese, have a family history of diabetes or have had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes.

 

 

Prevention of Diabetes

Preventing diabetes involves making healthy lifestyle choices.

 

Type 1 Diabetes: There is no known way to prevent Type 1 diabetes.

 

Type 2 Diabetes: To prevent Type 2 diabetes, it is essential to maintain a healthy weight, engage in regular physical activity, and follow a healthy diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and avoiding processed and sugary foods. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

 

Gestational diabetes: Women who are planning to become pregnant can reduce their risk of developing gestational diabetes by maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity. During pregnancy, it is essential to attend regular prenatal appointments and follow a healthy diet.

 

Treatment of Diabetes

The treatment of diabetes depends on the type of diabetes and its severity by Healthline.

 

A picture of insulin and syringe 

 

Type 1 Diabetes: Treatment for Type 1 diabetes involves taking insulin injections or using an insulin pump. It is essential to monitor blood sugar levels regularly and adjust insulin doses as needed. A healthy diet and regular physical activity can also help manage Type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes: Treatment for Type 2 diabetes may involve lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and following a healthy diet. In some cases, medications or insulin therapy may also be necessary to manage blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important for managing Type 2 diabetes, as well as controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Gestational Diabetes: Treatment for gestational diabetes may involve monitoring blood sugar levels, making dietary changes, and engaging in regular physical activity. In some cases, medication may be necessary to control blood sugar levels. It is important to attend regular prenatal appointments and follow the advice of healthcare providers to manage gestational diabetes effectively.

 

 

How to stay healthy with Diabetes

• Eat nutritious and fresh foods including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein,  low-fat dairy products,  and sources of healthy fats,  such as nuts.  
• Avoid high-sugar foods that provide empty calories or calories with no other nutritional benefits, such as sugary soft drinks,  fried foods, and high-sugar desserts.
•  Do not drink too much alcohol or limit drinking to less than one drink per day for women or two drinks per day for men. 
•  Exercise for at least 30 minutes a  day at least 5 days a  week, such as walking, aerobics,  cycling,  or swimming. 
• Be aware of the signs of low blood sugar during exercise,  including dizziness, confusion, weakness, and profuse sweating. 
•  Some people can also take steps to lower their body mass index (BMI) if needed, which can help people with type 2 diabetes manage the disease without medication.
  
  

Diabetes is a serious and growing public health issue. If you have diabetes or are at risk of developing diabetes, there are steps you can take to manage the condition and prevent complications. Here are some steps that can help:

A picture of getting a sample for a fasting blood sugar test

 

• Get Regular Health Checkups: If you have diabetes, it is important to get regular checkups to monitor blood sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other health factors that can affect diabetes. Regular checkups can help detect and prevent complications associated with diabetes.
• Follow a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle can help prevent and manage diabetes. Eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption can all help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and its complications.
• Educate Yourself: Educating yourself about diabetes and its management can help you take control of your health. Attend educational classes and workshops, read books and articles, and talk to healthcare providers to learn more about managing diabetes.
• Get Support: Diabetes can be challenging to manage on your own. Getting support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can help you stay motivated and on track with managing diabetes.

 

In conclusion, diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world. The causes and management of diabetes differ depending on the type of diabetes, but lifestyle factors play a significant role in its development and management. It is essential to take proactive steps to prevent and manage diabetes, including regular checkups, healthy lifestyle choices, education, and support.

 

By working together, we can reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and communities around the world.