Diabetes: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease in which your body can’t properly control the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood. This occurs either when the body does not produce enough insulin or when it does not use insulin properly. It’s the hormone that acts to assist glucose into cells where it can be used as energy, and that hormone is insulin.

What is normal blood sugar?

A typical blood sugar level is influenced by the timing of the measurement in relation to meals. Below are the standard ranges for adults who are not diabetic:

Fasting (after not eating for at least 8 hours):

-Normal: 70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L)

-Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L)

-Diabetes: 126 mg/dL (7.0 mmol/L) or higher on two distinct tests

2 Hours After Eating (Postprandial):

-Normal: Less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

-Prediabetes: 140–199 mg/dL (7.8–11.0 mmol/L)

-Diabetes: 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) or higher

Random (At any time of day, irrespective of food intake):

-Normal: Generally less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

-Diabetes: 200 mg/dL (11.1 mmol/L) or more, accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst or urination

what are types of Diabetes ?

• There are three primary forms of diabetes:

  Type 1 Diabetes: The body fails to produce insulin. This type typically begins in childhood.

  Type 2 Diabetes: The body does not utilize insulin effectively. It is more prevalent among adults and is frequently associated with lifestyle choices.

  Gestational Diabetes: This type arises during pregnancy and generally resolves after childbirth.
  
  

what are Symptoms of Diabetes ?

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to get checked:

• Frequent urination

• Increased thirst

• Fatigue

• Blurred vision

• Unexplained weight loss

What Causes Diabetes? 

Several factors may contribute to developing diabetes:

• Genetics (family history)

• Unhealthy diet

• Lack of physical activity

• Obesity

• Hormonal changes (in gestational diabetes)

How to Manage Diabetes ?

Managing diabetes requires maintaining a healthy lifestyle and, at times, the use of medication. Essential steps consist of:

• Consuming a balanced diet that is low in sugar and refined carbohydrates.
• Engaging in regular physical activity.
• Keeping track of blood sugar levels.
• Administering medications or insulin as prescribed.
• Attending regular check-ups with your healthcare provider.

Can Diabetes Be Prevented? 

Type 1 diabetes is not preventable. Conversely, Type 2 diabetes can frequently be postponed or avoided through lifestyle modifications such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Consuming nutritious foods
• Steering clear of sugary beverages