Diabetes affects millions of people every other day. It’s hard to understand how much it affects a person’s life if you have never been exposed to diabetes before. Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting how your body processes sugar, or glucose, in your bloodstream. To avoid serious complications you will have to constantly monitor your blood sugar and administer insulin. November is considered Diabetes Awareness Month in an effort to raise awareness against this high stake condition. Glucose is the foremost energy fuel to the body.
There are mainly two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate the amount of sugar in the bloodstream. Without enough insulin, the body cannot effectively use glucose for energy, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or when the pancreas is not able to produce enough insulin to meet the body’s needs. This leads to high blood sugar levels, as well.
Both types of diabetes can lead to serious health complications if not properly managed. These complications can include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and foot problems. One of the most important things you can do to manage your diabetes is to maintain good blood sugar control. This can be done through a combination of healthy eating, physical activity, and medication (if prescribed by a healthcare provider). It’s also important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, as this can help you determine how well your treatment plan is working and if any adjustments need to be made. Another important aspect of diabetes management is taking care of your feet. High blood sugar levels can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage, which can increase your risk of foot problems. It’s important to check your feet regularly for cuts, blisters, or other injuries and to keep them clean and dry.
In addition to managing your diabetes, it’s also important to be aware of the risk factors for developing the condition. Some risk factors for type 2 include being overweight or obese, having a family history of diabetes, being over the age of 45, and having high blood pressure. There are also some lifestyle factors that can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, such as not getting enough physical activity, smoking, and consuming a diet high in processed and sugary foods. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help you reduce your risk of developing it or help manage the condition if you already have it.
Overall, diabetes is a serious and chronic condition that requires ongoing management and attention. By understanding the risks and taking steps to manage your blood sugar levels, you can help reduce your risk of serious complications and live a healthy and active life.