Diabetes type 2 is the most common type of Diabetes. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 425 million adults (20-79 years) were living with diabetes. Globally! At this rate, by 2045 this will rise to 629 million. Alarming Rise for sure.
Let’s understand Diabetes
There is a hormone in our body called Insulin. Insulin extracts the sugar from the food we eat. Distributes it amongst the cells in the body. Which our body uses as energy. The failure of Insulin to do so results in high blood sugar. Is known as Diabetes.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
The pancreas cannot make insulin due to autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells. So to lower blood sugar levels patients have to depend on insulin injections.
Type 2 Diabetes
Cells in the body cannot convert the blood sugars. Not able to release energy to the cells in the body. This increases blood sugar levels, causing Type 2 diabetes. But, it is possible to sugar levels can following a diet and exercise.
Did you know
The most common of diabetes is type 2. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 90 to 95 % of people with diabetes in the United States have type 2. Only 5 % of people have type 1.
Reasons for the Rise of Type 2 Diabetes
- Body Fat
2. Genes
3. High Blood Pressure or Cholesterol
4. History of Gestational Diabetes
5. Sedentary Lifestyle
6. Eating Foods High In Sugar
7. High Consumption of Artificial Sweeteners
Why should it be a Worry?
- Increased risk of Heart disease
- May damage blood vessels in the eye. Increased chances of Cataract and Glaucoma.
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Sleep Apnea
- Hearing Impairment
What are the symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes
- If you are frequently thirsty
- If you are urinating a lot
- Gaining or Losing weight unintentionally
- Darkened skin in the armpits and neck
- Fatigue
- Blurred Vision
Include some of the symptoms of type 2 Diabetes. Usually, Type 2 Diabetes goes unnoticed unless it shows blood tests.
Type 2 Diabetes is a lifestyle disease (sometimes genetics well) which has severe consequences. Good news is – making lifestyle changes can lower blood sugar levels.
How to Stop it
1. Follow a Diabetic Diet Plan
Eating foods that are low in glycemic index. Foods with a lot of fiber, protein, and fats. Like vegetables, Fish, Chicken, Lentils, low-fat dairy, nuts, and whole grains. Consumption of these can help you lower blood sugar.
Here you will find some healthy recipes that diabetics can eat.
Foods to Avoid:
- Processed cheese
- Bread
- Potatoes
- Jam preserves
- Sweets
- Chips
- Pasta
- Canned / Tinned Fruit
- Foods high in Sodium and Salt
Did you know
Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States of America?
2. Exercise
Exercise is good. No matter what the condition is. Incorporating any kind of exercise in your daily routine will make you feel better. Because it pulls out glucose from the blood. Patients experience high energy levels as energy is transferred to the cells. Exercises that involve resistance band can come in handy as they help build muscle.
3. Weight Management
Excess body fat can cause insulin hostility in your body. The main cause of Type 2 Diabetes.
4. Check Alcohol Intake
One reason is alcohol is high in calories lead to weight gain. Second, they increase triglyceride levels in the body.
5. Bye Bye Smoking
Smokers have higher risks of Type 2 Diabetes than non-smokers.
6. Keep Blood Pressure in check
If not controlled can cause blood vessel damage, heart risk and kidney failure.
With a little change, in your diet, morning routine, physical activity levels you can combat this acute disease. Consult a dietician who can design a specialised plan as per your blood sugar targets, weight etc.
If you resolve to combat diabetes. It is possible!
We look forward to hearing your story. Do share with us in the comment section below.
