TYPE 2 DIABETES: SYMPTOMS AND WAYS TO MANAGE IT

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people with diabetes has risen from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2016. The WHO estimates that 90 percent of people around the world who suffer from diabetes have Type 2 diabetes.
What is Type 2 diabetes?
The pancreas produces a hormone called insulin which helps your cells convert glucose (from the food you eat) into energy. People with Type 2 diabetes are able to produce insulin, but their cells are unable to use it effectively. This is called insulin resistance. The cells become resistant to the action of insulin. Initially the pancreas makes the extra insulin but over time it can’t make sufficient insulin to overcome this resistance. Instead of helping the cells to use sugar for energy, the sugar level builds up in the bloodstream.
Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes:
• Increased thirst
• Frequent or increased urination, especially at night
• Excessive hunger
• Fatigue
• Blurry vision
• Non-healing sores & cuts
• Unexplained Weight loss
If you experience any of these symptoms on a regular basis, consult with your doctor.
Ways to manage Type 2 diabetes:
• If you are overweight, the first goal is to knock off the excess weight through exercises and diet modifications. Monitor your fat, carbs and protein intake
• Exercise regularly and take long walks. Try not to lead a sedentary lifestyle as it is harmful for the body.
• Practice yoga and meditation and keep stress at bay
• Take medicines/injections on time, as prescribed
• Monitor your blood sugar level regularly. Nowadays there are many easy to use home kits available for the purpose
Preventing Types 2 diabetes is all about healthy living. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 can be prevented with lifestyle modifications. Do the following regularly to keep the condition at bay:
• Exercise for minimum 30 minutes a day and keep yourself active throughout the day. In short, avoid a sedentary lifestyle. According to WHO, The Diabetes Prevention Program found that weight loss and increased physical activity reduced the development of Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent during a three-year study period. Amongst older subjects (60 years or older), the reduction was 71 percent
• Monitor your diet and weight. Eat healthy
• Quit smoking
For more info: www.diabetacare.com
Location: Bangalore, Karnataka, India

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