Diabetes is one of the fastest growing diseases in the world. Why is diabetes so prevalent these days? Normally people gain weight and are diagnosed with diabetes when their condition worsens to an extreme. Diabetes has become a global problem because of the popularity of fast food and junk food, lack of exercise, and high stress levels.
What is Diabetes?
There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the beta cells of the pancreas, resulting in a lack of insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or when the cells do not respond properly to insulin. Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born.
If you have diabetes, your body cannot make or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body convert glucose (sugar) into energy. Too much glucose in your blood can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and amputations.
You can avoid getting diabetes by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. You should also get regular screenings for diabetes and prediabetes.
Causes of Diabetes
There are a number of different things that can cause diabetes. One of the most common causes is being overweight or obese. This is because there is more insulin resistance in people who are overweight or obese. Another common cause is having a family history of diabetes. This means that you are more likely to develop diabetes if your parents or siblings have it. Finally, people with certain health conditions like PCOS or pancreatitis are also at an increased risk for developing diabetes.
Early Symptoms
The early symptoms of diabetes can be hard to spot. That’s why it’s important to know the risk factors and what to look for.
Some early symptoms include:
-Frequent urination
-Excessive thirst
-Fatigue
-Blurry vision
-Slow healing cuts or bruises
-Weight loss (even though you may be eating more)
If you have any of these symptoms, please see a doctor as soon as possible.
Prevention and Treatment Options
There are a few key things you can do to prevent diabetes, or manage it if you have already been diagnosed.
A healthy diet is critical for everyone, but especially important for those at risk for diabetes. Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Avoid sugary drinks, processed foods, and trans fats.
Exercise is another important factor in managing or preventing diabetes. Getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week can help keep your weight down, improve your insulin sensitivity, and lower your risk of developing diabetes.
If you have diabetes, working with a healthcare team is essential to managing your condition.Your treatment plan will likely include medication to help control your blood sugar levels as well as making lifestyle changes like those described above. Insulin therapy may also be necessary if diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to keep your blood sugar levels under control.
