Diabetes is a group of lifestyle diseases that affect how your body utilizes sugar or glucose in the blood. The main form of diabetes – diabetes mellitus occurs when the blood sugar levels are higher than usual, resulting in symptoms such as unintended weight loss, increased thirst, slow-healing wounds, irritability, and frequent urination. The symptoms of San Pedro diabetes may vary from person to person, depending on blood sugar levels. This health problem can develop in people of different age groups, including children and older people.
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What causes diabetes?
The causes of diabetes are different for each type of disease and include type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes
There is no established cause for type 1 diabetes. However, people develop this type of diabetes when the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the body. This is an abnormal reaction as the immune system’s function is to fight against harmful bacteria and viruses. Destruction of the cells that secrete insulin causes a build-up in blood sugar levels. Insulin in your body has different functions that include:
- Facilitates the absorption of sugar in the cells.
- Regulates or lowers the sugar levels in your bloodstream.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the cells in your body fail to absorb sugar from the bloodstream, and the pancreas becomes unable to produce more insulin. This type of diabetes is linked to certain risk factors such as obesity and genetic susceptibility. However, not every individual diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is overweight.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes affects pregnant women due to the hormones produced by the placenta during pregnancy. While those hormones are meant to sustain the pregnancy, they can make cells in your body.
Resistant to insulin. As a natural response, the pancreas produces more insulin to resolve the resistance. This may only continue for a limited period as the pancreas may not keep up. When the pancreas fails to produce more insulin, more glucose accumulates in the blood compared to that absorbed in the cells, causing an increase in blood sugar levels.
What is the treatment for diabetes?
Diabetes treatment may range from lifestyle changes to medications such as metformin and meglitinides. The treatment varies depending on the type of diabetes one is suffering from. While medications may help lower blood sugar levels, your doctor may advise that you observe lifestyle changes that include:
Healthy eating
There is no particular diet meant for diabetic people. However, you may need to cut down on saturated fats and processed sugars such as sweets. Your specialist may advise that you eat more soluble whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins as they are high in nutrition and low in fat. You may have sugary foods but in moderation and as part of your meal plan.
Exercise
Physical activity makes the cells in your body more sensitive to insulin and facilitates a drop in blood sugar levels. Your physical therapist may formulate a workout plan for you to enhance consistency.
If you have further inquiries on diabetes, consult with your doctor at Harbor Community Health Centers today.