Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people around the world, it occurs when the body can’t regulate blood sugar levels properly. Blood sugar is the glucose or main sugar that is found in your blood and is the primary source of energy. Let’s explore the types of diabetes, causes, symptoms and how it could be controlled.

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What is Diabetes?

Diabetes could be understood as a disorder of metabolism, where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is the blood sugar hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the glucose get into your cells to be used as energy. When this process gets hindered, glucose gathers in the blood, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels.

When the blood glucose or blood sugar is at an elevated level, it is known as Hyperglycaemia. It is a common effect of unmanaged diabetes and leads to serious damage to nerves and blood vessels.

Types of Diabetes

There are several types of Diabetes. The most common forms:

• Type 1 Diabetes- This is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks and eliminates insulin-producing cells, which results in requirement of lifelong daily administration of insulin intake. It is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, but it could occur at any age.

• Type 2 Diabetes- This condition is most common, Type 2 diabetes affects how your body uses sugar (glucose) for energy. In this type, your body doesn’t produce enough insulin or it doesn't use it properly.

It stops the body from using insulin properly, which can lead to high levels of blood sugar if not treated. Over time, type 2 diabetes can cause serious damage to the body, especially nerves and blood vessels.

This type is often preventable as the factors that contribute to this type are under our control like weight, workout, etc. This type of diabetes was seen only in adults but it is now also occurring increasingly frequently in children as well.

• Gestational Diabetes: This type develops during pregnancy and affects how cells use glucose. It usually resolves after pregnancy, but you’re at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes is diagnosed through prenatal screening, rather than through reported symptoms.

These are the most common types of Diabetes, other types of diabetes include Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), Type 3c Diabetes, Neonatal diabetes, etc.

What are the Causes of Elevated Blood Sugar?

Several factors contribute to the development of diabetes. When the glucose that circulates in the bloodstream is excessive, it leads to diabetes, irrespective of the type. Here are some factors that cause diabetes:

• Insulin Resistance- Type 2 diabetes usually occurs from insulin resistance, which happens when cells don’t respond regularly to insulin. Several factors and conditions contribute to varying degrees of insulin resistance, including obesity, lack of physical activity, etc.
• Autoimmune Disease- Type 1 diabetes develops when the immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells.
• Genetics- It is not necessary for diabetes to develop with certain factors only, it could be passed down from generation to generation. A family history of diabetes increases your risk.
• Lifestyle- People with unhealthy lifestyles are at a higher risk of developing diabetes as a poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity significantly impact glucose metabolism.
• Hormonal Imbalances- When a woman is pregnant, she is at risk of developing gestational diabetes because the placenta (an organ that provides oxygen to the developing baby) releases hormones that cause insulin resistance. Other hormone-related conditions can cause type 2 diabetes.

What are the Symptoms of Diabetes?

Letting diabetes linger over your health for long time could be harmful as it is crucial to diagnose early and manage the condition:

1. Increased Thirst
2. Frequent Urination
3. Extreme Fatigue
4. Blurred Vision
5. Weight Loss

Diabetes can damage blood vessels in the heart, kidneys, heart and nerves. People with diabetes have a higher risk of health problems such as heart attack or kidney failure.

Managing Diabetes

Diabetes is a complex condition, its management involves several strategies and involves a diverse approach:

• Dietary Changes- A balanced diet is imperative to regulate blood sugar.

1. Whole foods- Incorporate whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables and fruits into your meals.
2. Limit Carbs- Reduce your intake of carbohydrates as they directly impact blood sugar levels.
3. Hydration- Drink plenty of water to help your body regulate glucose levels.

• Regular Workout- Physical activity plays an important role in managing diabetes. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, allowing your cells to use glucose more effectively.

• Monitoring- Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is imperative for diabetic people. The HbA1c test provides an average blood sugar level over the past months.

Conclusion

Being diagnosed with diabetes is a life-turning event, but it doesn’t stop you from living a good life. Understanding diabetes and its significance on blood sugar management is important for a healthy life. Incorporating a balanced diet, activeness, and monitoring of your glucose levels can efficiently manage this condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How is diabetes diagnosed?

Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests such as the fasting blood sugar test, HbA1c test, or oral glucose tolerance test. These tests measure your blood sugar levels and help determine if you have diabetes.

• Is type 2 diabetes curable?

No, type 2 diabetes is not curable but it can be managed by practicing right lifestyle changes and regular monitoring of your glucose level.

• What should I eat if I have diabetes?

Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Monitor your carbohydrate intake and limit sugary foods to help manage blood sugar levels.

• What are the long-term complications of diabetes?

If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems. Regular monitoring and management can help reduce these risks.

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