Diabetes is a disease that stops the body from breaking down blood sugar (glucose). The blood sugar in the body can quickly build-up leading to a stroke and/or heart disease. It is imperative to take action to bring the diabetes under control. There are three types of diabetes:
Type 1 occurs when the pancreas does not make the hormone insulin (or very little), due to cell damage caused by the immune system. There is no insulin available to enter the bloodstream and reduce blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels increase, a person is put at risk for a heart attack or stroke.
Therefore insulin must be injected for the rest of a person’s life. If insulin were present, our cells could absorb it giving us energy, or it could be turned into fat to be used at a later time. This is why one of the symptoms of diabetes is fatigue. There is no glucose in the cells to give us energy. Another symptom of diabetes is constant urination. The kidneys overwork to filter the increased sugar from the bloodstream causing more urination. This type of diabetes can be managed by being physically active, knowing what foods affect blood sugar levels, and getting the correct insulin dosage.
Type 2 is when the pancreas creates insulin; however, the cells become resistant to it. In an attempt to get the cells to absorb the insulin, the pancreas produces more of it. The high levels of sugar in the blood also causes the creation of insulin. As mentioned above with Type 1 Diabetes, the symptoms of fatigue, and frequent urination exist.
The risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure are also present. There are preventative measures a person can take to stop or delay the onset of Type 2 Diabetes, such as: consuming healthy foods, regular exercise, keeping weight down, and reducing stress. It can be controlled with medication.
Gestational is associated with pregnancy in women. During pregnancy, some women have difficulty processing blood sugar due to the hormonal changes taking place in their bodies. The risk of high blood pressure (Pre-eclampsia) and delivery by C-section is heightened.
A woman who suffered from gestational diabetes may have a greater chance of developing Type 2 Diabetes later in life. Eating healthy and staying active will lessen the possibility of this type of diabetes arising.
Diabetes does not affect everyone the same. Some people may never develop the disease in their lifetime. Although if it runs in your family, you may be more susceptible to it. It can be controlled. Individuals, young and old, have lived long and fruitful lives with diabetes. A challenge to be overcome. Diabetes can teach us all to be our best selves.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.