WHAT IS DIABETES?

DIABETES

Diabetes is a persistent health condition stemming from insulin-related issues, either in production or functionality. Insulin, a hormone, plays a key role in enabling glucose (sugar) to enter the body’s cells for energy. Delve deeper into understanding diabetes and its effective management.

WHAT IS DIABETES?

Diabetes is a persistent condition that lacks a cure but can be managed effectively. It arises when the body struggles to utilize glucose, a vital energy source for bodily functions. To enter cells, glucose relies on insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. In diabetes, there’s an insufficient production of insulin or an impaired utilization of the available insulin. Consequently, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).

Over time, persistently high blood glucose levels lead to irreversible complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels.

WHO GETS DIABETES?

While genetics do play a role, the surge in diabetes cases is closely linked to dietary and lifestyle factors. These encompass excessive consumption of refined sugars, saturated fats, and meat, a dearth of dietary fiber, being overweight, and leading a sedentary lifestyle. The higher the prevalence of these characteristics within a given population, the more rampant diabetes becomes.

THE MAIN TYPES OF DIABETES

Type 1 diabetes
Commonly referred to as “insulin-dependent diabetes” or “juvenile diabetes,” this type typically emerges during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood and is rarely diagnosed in older adults. Approximately 10% of individuals with diabetes have type 1. It is characterized by a complete absence of insulin production. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections or use an insulin pump for survival.

Type 2 diabetes
Often termed “non-insulin-dependent diabetes” or “adult-onset diabetes,” type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form, accounting for 90% of cases. It usually manifests in adulthood, primarily in individuals aged 40 and older. Unfortunately, there has been a concerning trend in recent years, with more people developing type 2 diabetes at increasingly younger ages. In some high-risk populations, even children can develop type 2 diabetes.

For some individuals with type 2 diabetes, their pancreatic cells do not produce an adequate amount of insulin. In others, the insulin produced by the body is ineffective, a condition known as “insulin resistance.” In both scenarios, elevated blood sugar levels occur because the body cannot efficiently use glucose as an energy source.

Gestational diabetes Also known as “pregnancy diabetes,” gestational diabetes affects roughly 4% of pregnant women in Canada. Blood glucose levels tend to rise toward the end of the second trimester or during the third trimester of pregnancy, impacting both the baby and the mother. In 90% of cases, gestational diabetes resolves after childbirth, but mothers become more susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Most pregnant women with gestational diabetes do not experience noticeable symptoms. Consequently, a screening test is typically recommended between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy to detect the condition.

HOW TO PREVENT TYPE 2 DIABETES

• Maintain a healthy weight. It’s worth noting that around 80% to 90% of individuals with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese, according to the Canadian Diabetes Association.
• Consume a nutritious diet. Consider consulting with a nutritionist for personalized guidance.
• Engage in regular exercise, ideally for a minimum of 30 minutes, at least five days per week.
• Avoid smoking, as smoking damages blood vessels and raises the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Reduce alcohol consumption or consider moderating your intake.
• Manage stress effectively.

It’s important to clarify that the causes of diabetes are multifaceted and not solely attributed to high sugar consumption. While consuming sugary foods does not directly lead to diabetes, it can contribute to weight gain, a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

DIABETES SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes are quite similar, encompassing:

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Weight changes (either gain or loss)
• Profound fatigue or lack of energy
• Blurred vision
• Elevated susceptibility to skin, gum, bladder, vaginal, or foreskin infections
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Delayed skin and wound healing

In type 2 diabetes, symptoms can sometimes remain inconspicuous for an extended period. However, the disease continues to progress and may cause potentially irreversible damage.

Wounds that do not heal: Individuals with diabetes face a heightened risk of slow-to-heal wounds due to a loss of sensation and circulatory issues. Diabetes can also lead to an increased risk of infections. These combined factors contribute to delayed wound healing, and, in severe cases, infections can even result in the need for amputation.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR FEET

Here are some fundamental tips:

• Examine your feet daily for any changes, no matter how minor. Look out for signs like redness, swelling, pain, bleeding, scratches, tingling, or numbness. Using a mirror can help make this inspection easier.
• Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, ensuring that the water temperature is safe by testing it with your elbow.
• If your feet are dry, regularly apply moisturizing cream. Avoid applying moisturizer between your toes, as this can encourage the development of athlete’s foot, a fungal infection.
• Refrain from using heating pads or hot water bottles to warm your feet or legs.
• Do not use over-the-counter products to remove calluses or corns without consulting your doctor or podiatrist. Avoid using sharp nail care tools.
• Trim your toenails straight and use an emery board for filing instead of a metal nail file.
• Avoid walking barefoot and always check your shoes for small stones or sharp objects before putting them on.
• Quit smoking, as smoking can lead to circulation issues.
• Have your feet examined annually by a professional, such as a podiatrist.

DIABETES TREATMENT

The goal of treating diabetes is mainly to normalize glycemia (the amount of sugar in the blood, or blood glucose). Diabetes treatment has 4 components:

• A healthy and balanced diet.
• Regular physical activity.
• Strict adherence to your medication, if your doctor has prescribed it. Many classes of diabetes medications are available in the form of tablets or injections.
• Good stress management.

Research on drug treatment for diabetes is constantly evolving, and advances are made every year.