What is Diabetes?

Diabetes, medically known as diabetes, is a disease that is a disorder in the control of blood sugar levels due to insulin hormone deficiency. Normally, a gland in the body called the pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which allows blood sugar to be absorbed into the cells. However, in people with diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body cannot use the insulin effectively.

There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes: This type of diabetes usually starts at a young age when the immune system mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. This causes the body not to produce enough insulin. People with type 1 diabetes have to use insulin injections or an insulin pump for the rest of their lives.

Type 2 Diabetes: This type of diabetes usually occurs in adults and the body becomes unable to use insulin effectively. Type 2 diabetes is often associated with: insulin resistance, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, genetic factors and lifestyle. Initially, people with Type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugar through diet, exercise and lifestyle changes. But in some cases, medicines or insulin injections may also be needed.

Left uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to serious health problems. High blood sugar levels can cause heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye problems and other complications. Therefore, people with diabetes should check their blood sugar levels regularly, lead a healthy lifestyle and keep in regular contact with their doctor.

What are the Symptoms of Diabetes?

Diabetes symptoms:

• Constant excessive thirst and frequent urination.
• Constant feeling of hunger. Rapid weight loss.
• Fatigue and low energy.
• Blurred vision.
• Slow wound healing.
• Frequent infections.
• Tingling or numbness.
• Dry mouth.
• Increased or decreased appetite.

What are the Causes of Diabetes?

Causes of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes: The immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which leads to insulin production stopping.

Type 2 diabetes: Body cells develop resistance to insulin or not enough insulin is produced. 

Gestational diabetes: A type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and usually disappears after birth. Pregnancy hormones can reduce the effectiveness of insulin.

What are the Types of Diabetes?

Types of Diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease in which insulin production is completely stopped or greatly reduced.

Type 2 diabetes: Occurs when body cells develop resistance to insulin or when insulin cannot be produced in sufficient quantities.

Gestational diabetes: A temporary type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.

How is Diabetes Diagnosed?

Diabetes is usually diagnosed by the following methods:

Fasting blood glucose test: A blood test performed after fasting for at least 8 hours.

Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT): After the fasting blood glucose test, a drink containing a certain amount of glucose is consumed and the blood glucose level is measured.

Random blood glucose test: Blood glucose is measured at a random time without fasting.

What is Hidden Diabetes?

Hidden diabetes or prediabetes is the condition of having higher than normal blood glucose levels. Many people may be at risk of diabetes in the hidden diabetes stage. This can be an early sign of diabetes and can be reversible with healthy lifestyle changes.

What are the Symptoms of Hidden Diabetes?

Hidden Diabetes (Prediabetes) Symptoms:

Hidden diabetes may have no obvious symptoms. However, some people may experience symptoms, especially when fasting blood glucose levels rise or when blood glucose levels increase after a meal. These symptoms may include:

• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Increased appetite

What are the Treatment Methods for Diabetes?

Diabetes Treatment Methods:

• Managing diabetes involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet, exercise, weight control and stress management.
• Treatment of type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy.
• Treatment for type 2 diabetes involves lifestyle changes, sometimes requiring oral medication or insulin.
• Gestational diabetes is usually controlled with diet and exercise. However, in some cases, insulin may also be needed.

Why is the Diet of Diabetic Patients Important?

The diet of diabetic patients is important to control blood sugar levels and reduce the damages of diabetes. A healthy diet helps to stabilize blood sugar levels, control weight, protect heart health and promote overall good health. Diabetics are advised to follow a diet plan with a balanced distribution of carbohydrates, protein, fat and fiber. It is also important to avoid refined sugar and limit the consumption of processed foods, eat regularly without skipping meals and choose healthy foods. This helps to maintain blood sugar control and contributes to diabetes management.