Diabetes – What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a serious illness that affects millions each year. It occurs when the body does not make enough insulin or use the insulin that it does have effectively.
Diet, exercise and medication can aid in preventing or reducing the progression of the disease. It is important to be aware of the signs, so you can tell whether you have a problem and seek treatment.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health problem (long-lasting) that alters how your body converts food into energy. It occurs when the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin or is unable to properly use it.
Insulin is a hormone that assists cells absorb and utilize sugar, also known as glucose. Type 2 diabetics don’t produce enough insulin or are unable to use it in a proper way.
In both types of diabetes, blood sugar levels are too high over time. This can cause problems with your feet, eyes, and kidneys. It may also cause damage to the blood vessels in your heart and brain.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune reaction which means that your immune system attacks the insulin-producing pancreatic cells and destroys them. This process can take many years or months before eventually resulting in a total lack of insulin.
Insulin is needed by people with type 1 diabetes every day. They must also monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their insulin, food, and activities to maintain their blood sugar within an acceptable range.
Type 2 diabetes
If you suffer from type 2 diabetes your body isn’t producing insulin as it should. Insulin is a hormonal substance that helps your cells move glucose (blood sugar) from your blood into your cells, where it can be used as energy.
People suffering from type 2 diabetes have to manage their condition by eating a balanced diet and exercise. They may also have to take medications to control their blood sugar levels.
The signs of diabetes in women
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects people from all races, ethnicities, and genders. However women are at greater risk than men.
Women with diabetes have a higher chance of developing complications compared to men, including heart disease (the most common diabetes complication) and loss of vision.
Polydipsia can be a warning sign for diabetes in women. This is because diabetes can cause excess sugar to build up in your bloodstream and your kidneys are not able to eliminate it.
Men with symptoms of diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that occurs when cells are unable use glucose (blood sugar) as energy source. This is typically because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin.
This can result in high blood glucose levels. Your body will then attempt to lower these levels by flushing the excess glucose from your bloodstream via urine.
People with diabetes frequently have a thirsty feeling and must drink large amounts of fluids, as much as four liters per day.
Men can also experience weight loss as their muscles are broken down by their bodies for energy instead of fat. This is because their blood sugar levels remain high for long periods.
Diabetes diet
The development of a healthy diabetes diet is a crucial aspect of managing your condition. It can help you control blood sugar, manage your weight and reduce risk factors for heart disease.
Include whole foods in your diet, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Also, low-fat dairy products and legumes are great choices. It should be free of saturated fats and sugars as well as added sugars (unhealthy).
You may also need to limit the amount of drinks that contain sugar you consume. These drinks are often packed with sugar, which can cause blood sugar levels in the body to increase.
Diabetes medication
Your doctor may prescribe diabetes medications to keep your blood sugar (glucose) levels within an acceptable range. These medications are typically combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise to help control your diabetes.
If your blood sugar levels aren’t well managed by one medication another medicine could be added. Your doctor can help you choose the best medicine for your personal preferences and needs.
Newer medications such as glucagon-like receptor antagonists for peptide-1 and sodium-glucose COtransporter-2 inhibitors decrease blood sugar levels, provide kidney and cardiovascular benefits and lower the risk of complications. They are also beneficial for weight loss and are available in tablet and injectable forms.