Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body cannot properly process blood sugar (glucose) due to insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use.
The main types are:
Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition requiring insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes: Often linked to lifestyle factors and can be managed through diet, exercise, and medication.
Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy and typically resolves after delivery.
Common symptoms include:
Increased thirst and frequent urination.
Fatigue and weakness.
Unexplained weight loss.
Blurred vision.
Slow-healing sores or infections.
Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests, such as:
Fasting Blood Sugar Test.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test.
Hemoglobin A1c Test.
Type 2 diabetes is primarily caused by a combination of genetic factors, poor diet, physical inactivity, and being overweight or obese.
There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and insulin therapy (for Type 1). Some individuals with Type 2 diabetes may achieve remission with significant lifestyle adjustments.
To reduce your risk:
Maintain a healthy weight.
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Stay physically active.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications such as:
Heart disease and stroke.
Kidney damage.
Nerve damage (neuropathy).
Eye damage (retinopathy).
Foot problems and infections.
Genetics can play a role, especially in Type 2 diabetes. However, lifestyle factors also significantly influence its development.
Limit foods high in sugar, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats, such as: