Diabetes explained
Type 2 diabetes is becoming an increasing problem in our society, because many people are doing less and less exercise, and more people are becoming overweight or obese.
Diabetes is a condition in which too much sugar (glucose) circulates in the blood. There are two main types:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is due to the body’s failure to produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas, which helps the body to absorb glucose and convert it into energy.
In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas is producing insulin, but it is not producing enough to be effective or the body is not able to use what is being produced properly. So, the level of glucose in the blood remains high.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common variation, and as many as 85% to 95% of people with diabetes will have this form.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can creep up slowly. Important things to look out for include:
- Being very thirsty
- Needing to go to the toilet for a wee more than usual, especially during the night
- Being unusually tired
- Losing weight without any obvious reason
- Getting blurred vision
- Recurring episodes of thrush or genital itching
- Finding that any cuts or wounds are slow to heal
The symptoms of type 1 diabetes are similar, but they appear very quickly – usually within a matter of weeks.
If you think you may have diabetes, then it is important to consult your GP as soon as you can. Early diagnosis and treatment will help to prevent the more serious complications that are associated with diabetes.
Can I avoid diabetes?
The number of people developing type 2 diabetes in the UK is rising at an alarming rate, and is thought to be due to a combination of factors, which include:
- Increasing obesity and the rise in the number of people, especially children, who are overweight
- An unhealthy diet, high in saturated fats, sugar and salt
- A lack of physical exercise and general inactivity
- An unhealthy lifestyle, which includes smoking, and drinking too much alcohol
A change in lifestyle is essential – taking steps to eat a balanced diet and taking more exercise will not only help to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but will also improve your overall health and fitness, and reduce your risk of developing other health problems, such as:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol levels
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Osteoarthritits
Useful links
British Cycling Federation The British Walking Federation Depression Alliance Diabetes.co.uk – the global diabetes community Diabetes UK
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Food Standards Agency – eat well, be well NHS choices – diabetes NHS Choices – live well NHS Stop Smoking – SmokeFree Weightwatchers |