Disclaimer: The information provided in this discussion is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical or professional advice. Only a qualified health professional can determine what practices are suitable for your individual needs and abilities.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a complex disease that impacts how the body metabolizes glucose, a type of sugar that is the main source of energy for our cells. Glucose comes from the foods we eat and our liver. It requires insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, to enter cells throughout the body where it can be used for energy.
In people with diabetes, there is either not enough insulin being produced, or the body has become resistant to its effects. This causes glucose to build up in the bloodstream instead of being absorbed by the cells that need it. Over time, having too much glucose circulating can severely damage the body’s tissues and organs.
There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (a form that occurs during pregnancy). Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Only about 5-10% of people with diabetes have this form. Type 2 diabetes is far more common, making up 90-95% of cases. It develops when tissues become resistant to insulin’s effects and/or there is not enough insulin being secreted. The causes involve a complex interaction between genetics and lifestyle factors. Gestational diabetes occurs in some women during the second half of pregnancy when hormones interfere with insulin signaling.
Some common symptoms of diabetes include:
- Frequent urination and increased thirst due to excess sugar spilling into the urine
- Increased hunger as cells are unable to access glucose for energy
- Unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite
- Fatigue due to inadequate glucose uptake by cells
- Blurred vision as fluid builds up in the lenses of the eyes
- Slow healing of cuts, scrapes, or wounds
If left uncontrolled, chronically high blood sugar can progressively damage the nerves, kidneys, heart, eyes, and blood vessels. However, getting blood glucose levels into a healthy target range can prevent or slow many diabetes complications.
Managing diabetes requires paying close attention to diet, physical activity, medication, and blood sugar monitoring. Type 1 diabetes always needs insulin treatment, while type 2 can sometimes be managed through lifestyle strategies alone. Doctors may prescribe oral medications, insulin, or other injectable drugs to lower blood glucose.
Advancements continue to improve treatment options and quality of life for people with diabetes. Technologies like continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps allow for tighter blood sugar control. The future is also very promising for cell-based therapies that may one day free some patients from insulin dependence.
The key for living well with diabetes is patient education, self-care, and working closely with your healthcare providers. While there is no cure yet, diabetes can be successfully managed by making diet and lifestyle changes, adhering to your treatment regimen, getting regular screenings for complications, and monitoring your individual symptoms and triggers. The outlook for most people with diabetes is very encouraging and continuing to improve.
Hey there! We hope you love our fitness programs and the products we recommend. Just so you know, Symku Blog is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us keep the lights on. Thanks.