Diabetes – What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a serious condition that is affecting millions of people each year. It happens when the body does not make enough insulin or make use of the insulin it has effectively.
Exercise, diet and medications can help to prevent or delay the development of the disease. It is important to be aware of the signs, to determine whether there is a problem and seek treatment.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is an ongoing (long-lasting) disease that affects how your body transforms food into energy. It occurs when your pancreas does not produce enough insulin or fails to use it properly.
Insulin is the hormone that aids your body to absorb and utilize glucose, also known as sugar. Type 2 diabetics do not produce enough insulin or are unable to use it properly.
The blood sugar levels increase as time passes in both types of diabetes. This can lead to problems with the eyes, kidneys and feet. It can also damage the arteries in your heart and brain.
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. The process of destruction can last for months or even years, eventually leading to the complete absence of insulin.
Type 1 diabetics must take insulin each day. They also must monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their food, insulin and activity levels in order to keep their blood glucose within an acceptable range.
Type 2 diabetes
If you suffer from type 2 diabetes, your body is not functioning as insulin should. Insulin is a hormone that assists your cells remove blood sugar (glucose) out of your blood and into your cells, where it can be used for energy.
People with type 2 diabetes need to treat their condition by consuming a balanced diet and regular exercise. They also may need to take medicine to control their blood sugar levels.
Signs of diabetes in women
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects all races and ethnic groups and ages as well as genders. However women are at higher risk than men.
Women with diabetes are more likely to suffer from complications, such as heart disease (the most frequent diabetes-related complication), and vision loss.
Polydipsia can be a warning sign for women suffering from diabetes. This is because diabetes can cause excess sugar to build up in your blood and kidneys are unable to filter it out.
The signs of diabetes in men
In diabetes, cells are unable to make use of blood sugar (glucose) for energy. This is usually because the pancreas produces insufficient insulin.
This can lead to high blood sugar levels. Your body will then attempt to lower these levels by flushing the excess glucose from your bloodstream via urine.
Patients with diabetes typically have a thirsty feeling and must drink large quantities of fluids. This can be up to four liters per day.
Men may also lose weight as their bodies make use of muscles for energy instead of fat. This is because their blood sugar levels are elevated for long periods.
Diabetes diet
A balanced diet for diabetes is a crucial aspect of managing the condition. It can help you control blood sugar levels and weight, as well as reduce the risk factors for heart diseases.
You should include whole food items in your diet, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Also, dairy products that are low in fat products such as beans, legumes, and beans are great choices. It should be low in added sugars and saturated fats (unhealthy).
You may need to limit your consumption of sweetened drinks with sugar. These drinks are typically packed with sugar which can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
Diabetes medication
Your doctor might prescribe diabetes medications to help keep your blood sugar (glucose) levels within the normal range. These medications are typically combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise to manage your diabetes.
If your blood sugar levels are not well controlled with one medication, you may need to take a different medication. Your doctor will assist you pick the best medication to suit your preferences and needs.
Newer medications like glucagon-like receptor agonists, peptide-1, and sodium-glucose inhibitors that lower blood sugar levels, provide cardiovascular and kidney benefits, and reduce the risk of complications. They also aid in weight loss, and they are available in tablets and injections.