Type 2 Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) illness that affects how your body converts food into energy. The majority of the food you consume is converted by your body into sugar (glucose), which is then released into your bloodstream. Your pancreas releases insulin when your blood sugar levels rise. For blood sugar to enter your body’s cells and be used as energy, insulin functions like a key. When you have diabetes, your body either produces insufficient insulin or uses it improperly. Too much blood sugar remains in your bloodstream when there is insufficient insulin or when cells cease reacting to insulin. That can eventually lead to major health issues like renal disease, eyesight loss, and heart disease.
Types of Diabetes:
Type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes are the three basic kinds of diabetes (diabetes while pregnant).
Difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes:
The body’s immune system destroys the insulin-producing islet cells in the pancreas, which results in diabetes type 1 in which the pancreas does not produce insulin. Insulin resistance develops in type 2 diabetes as a result of the pancreas producing less insulin than it once did.
Complexity of Type 2 Diabetes:
Type 2 diabetes is a disorder that develops when the body’s ability to control and utilize sugar as fuel is compromised.
There are actually two issues with type 2 diabetes.
- The hormone that controls the entry of sugar into cells, insulin, is not produced by the pancreas in sufficient amounts.
- Cells don’t react well to insulin and take up less sugar.
Symptoms:
Type 2 diabetes symptoms frequently appear gradually. In fact, you may have type 2 diabetes for years without realizing it. When symptoms do exist, they may consist of:
- Higher thirst.
- A lot of urine.
- Increased appetite.
- Weight loss without intent.
- Fatigue and hazy vision
- Slowly healing wounds.
- Many infections.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet.
- Areas of skin that have darkened, typically around the neck and armpits.
Causes:
Two issues are the main causes of type 2 diabetes:
- The liver, fat, and muscle cells become insulin-resistant. The cells don’t take in enough sugar as a result.
- The pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to maintain appropriate blood sugar levels.
It is unknown why this occurs specifically. Key contributing factors include being overweight and being inactive.
Risk Factors:
The following are some elements that could raise the risk of type 2 diabetes:
- Overweight or obese.
- Storing fat mostly in the abdomen.
- No physical activity.
- Family history
- Low levels of HDL cholesterol
- With aging, especially after age 35, the risk of type 2 diabetes rises.
- People with gestational diabetes
- Disorder of the polycystic ovary
How to prevent Diabetes and control sugar levels:
It’s never too late to start making changes to your lifestyle, which could be a significant step toward diabetes prevention. Observe these suggestions. The most prevalent form of diabetes, type 2, can be halted with lifestyle adjustments.
- Lose extra weight
- Be active physically
- Eat wholesome plant-based foods
- Consume good fats
- Avoid fad diets and opt for healthier options
Management:
You can manage and treat your diabetes with a variety of treatments. Because each person is unique, the type of treatment you receive will depend on your needs. The management of Type 2 diabetes involves a multifaceted approach aimed at controlling blood sugar levels, preventing complications, and improving overall health and quality of life.
Diabetes type 2 patients’ therapies:
- Tablets and medication.
- Weight loss surgery.
- Diet and exercise.
- Insulin.
- Emotional support.
Nutritional goals for Type 2 Diabetic patients:
A nutritious, well-balanced diet is an essential component of managing type 2 diabetes People with type 2 diabetes can better manage their illness by making dietary choices that are satisfying, healthful, and fit their specific nutritional needs.
Vegetables:
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Greens
- Peppers
- Tomatoes
- Potatoes
- Corn
- green peas
Beans and legumes:
- black beans
- lentils
- white beans
- garbanzo beans
- kidney beans
- pinto beans
Fruit:
- apples
- avocado
- blackberries
- cherries
- grapefruit
- peaches
- pears
- plums
- strawberries
Whole grain:
- whole wheat or legume pasta
- whole-grain bread
- wild rice
- 100% whole-grain or whole wheat flour
- cornmeal
- oatmeal
- millet
- amaranth
- barley
Dairy:
- Parmesan, ricotta, or cottage cheese
- low fat or skimmed milk
- low-fat Greek or plain yogurt
Meat:
- skinless, boneless chicken breast or strips
- salmon, sardines, tuna, and other oily fish
- white fish fillets
- skinless turkey breast
- eggs
Dressings, dips, spices, and condiments:
- vinegar
- olive oil
- mustard
- any spice or herb
- any variety of extracts
- hot sauces
- salsa
Dessert food:
- popsicles with no added sugar
- 100% fruit popsicles
- dessert containing sugar-free gelatin
- pudding or ice cream sweetened with zero-calorie or low calorie sweeteners, such as stevia and erythritol
Sugar substitutes:
- saccharin
- neotame
- aspartame
- sucralose
- stevia
- advantame
Drinks:
- unsweetened ice or hot tea
- unsweetened coffee
- low fat or skimmed milk
- unsweetened plant-based milks
- sparkling water
Snacks:
- Handmade popcorn
- Fresh fruit in modest portions
Managing Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong journey that demands commitment, knowledge, and proactive choices. While it may seem daunting, it’s essential to remember that with the right approach, diabetes can be well-controlled, allowing individuals to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. By embracing a balanced diet, regular exercise, proper medication when needed, and maintaining a strong support system, those with Type 2 diabetes can minimize complications and enjoy a brighter, healthier future. Ultimately, diabetes doesn’t define you; it’s just one part of your life that you can manage effectively with the right strategies and support.
