Understanding Type 2 Diabetes: A Comprehensive Overview
High blood sugar is the hallmark of type 2 diabetes. This chronic condition affects millions around the world. Diabetes of this type is usually associated with factors in the lifestyle, such as inactivity and poor eating habits. Understanding causes, treatments and prevention measures will help people with diabetes to live a healthy life and manage the condition.
What Is Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body fails to properly utilize insulin. Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulating the sugar movement into the cells. It can lead to serious health problems over time. World Health Organization estimates that 422 millions adults had diabetes in 2014. This is up from 108 million people in 1980. Globally, the prevalence of diabetes in adults older than 18 has increased from 4, 7% in 1980 up to 8,5% in 2014.
The Common Causes Of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes is primarily caused by lifestyle factors. These include:
- A poor diet can increase the risk of diabetes and weight gain.
- Exercise is important for weight control, as it burns glucose and increases insulin sensitivity.
- Overweight or obesity increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, as the fat in the body interferes with insulin's use by the body.
- Type 2 Diabetes Risk Increases with Age, Especially After 45 Years of Age
- Diabetes is genetic: A family history of the disease can raise your risk.
The Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes includes:
- Changes in diet: It is advised to eat a balanced diet that contains a high fiber content and is low in calories and fat.
- Exercise regularly to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
- There are several types of medications available including metformin and sulfonylureas.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body weight and achieving it can be helpful in managing blood sugar.
New England Journal of Medicine published a study that found lifestyle changes as well as medication reduced the risk of developing diabetes by more than half.
Experts' opinions on type 2 diabetes
Early detection and treatment of type 2 diabetics are important to health professionals. The Chief Scientific Officer of the American Diabetes Association Dr. William T. Cefalu states, "We have now strong evidence that we can improve outcomes and decrease complications with lifestyle interventions that maintain a healthy body weight, and multiple drug classes that treat hyperglycemia."
Prevention and Natural Remedies
Natural remedies and prevention measures can often be used in conjunction with medication.
- Keep a healthy body weight
- Consume a diet balanced, rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains
- Regular physical activity
- Reduce intake of processed and sugary foods
- Blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly through regular checkups