Diabetes – What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a serious disease that affects millions of people every year. It is caused when the body does not make enough insulin or make use of the insulin it produces effectively.
The good news is that it is treatable and can be prevented or delayed by diet, exercise and medication. It is also crucial to recognize the signs so you can identify whether you are suffering from a condition and seek treatment.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is an ongoing (long-lasting) health issue that affects the way your body turns food into energy. It happens when your pancreas isn’t producing enough insulin or doesn’t utilize it as effectively as it should.
Insulin is a hormone that assists your cells absorb and use sugar, also known as glucose. People suffering from type 2 diabetes don’t produce enough insulin, or their bodies can’t utilize it correctly.
The blood sugar levels increase over time in both types of diabetes. This can cause problems with the eyes, feet and kidneys. It can also cause damage to your brain and heart arteries.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a disease caused by an autoimmune reaction which means that your immune system attacks pancreatic cells that produce insulin, and destroys them. This process can last for many months or even years until it leads to an absence of insulin.
People suffering from type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day. They must also keep an eye on their blood sugar levels and adjust their insulin, food and levels of activity to maintain their blood sugar within an acceptable range.
Type 2 diabetes
If you suffer from type 2 diabetes the body isn’t producing insulin as it should. Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells get blood sugar (glucose) out of your blood and into your cells, where it can be used for energy.
Type 2 diabetics must exercise and eat a healthy diet. They may also need to take medication to regulate their blood glucose levels.
Diabetes in women symptoms
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects people from all races, ethnicities, and genders. However women are at a higher risk than men.
Women who suffer from diabetes are more likely to suffer from complications, such as heart disease (the most frequent complication of diabetes) and loss of vision.
One of the early warning signs of women suffering from diabetes is a rise in thirst and urine, a condition known as polydipsia. This is because diabetes can create excess sugar in your blood and kidneys can’t filter it out.
Diabetes in men The signs and symptoms
In the case of diabetes it is when cells are unable make use of blood sugar (glucose) to produce energy. This usually happens because the pancreas produces too little insulin.
This can result in high blood glucose levels. Your body will then try to lower these levels by flushing the excess glucose in your bloodstream via urine.
People suffering from diabetes frequently have a thirsty feeling and must drink large amounts of fluids. It can be as much as four liters per day.
Men can also experience weight loss since their muscles are broken down by their bodies for energy instead of fat. This is because blood sugar levels remain high for long periods.
Diabetes diet
A balanced diet for diabetes can be a key part of managing the condition. It can help you control blood sugar, control your weight, and reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
You should include whole food items in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Also, dairy products that are low in fat products such as beans, legumes, and beans are excellent choices. It should also be low in saturated (unhealthy) fat and added sugars.
You might consider limiting your consumption of beverages sweetened with sugar. These drinks are usually high in sugar and can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
Diabetes medications
Your doctor may prescribe diabetes medication to keep your blood glucose (blood sugar) levels within an acceptable range. These medications are typically paired with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise to help you manage your diabetes.
If your blood sugar levels aren’t managed on one medication then a second medication could be added. Your doctor will help you pick the best medication to meet your needs and preferences.
Newer medications like glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose inhibitors that lower blood sugar levels, provide cardiovascular and kidney benefits, and lower the risk of complications. They’re also helpful for weight loss and are available in tablet and injectable forms.