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What is diabetes How to take precautions, Diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.
This happens when the body cannot produce enough insulin or use it properly. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps glucose enter the body’s cells to be used for energy.
There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes: Occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type of diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and requires daily insulin injections or an insulin pump to manage blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes: Occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels within a normal range. This type of diabetes is usually diagnosed in adults, but is becoming more common in children and adolescents due to lifestyle factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity. Type 2 diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, medication, and sometimes insulin.
Taking precautions to prevent or manage diabetes includes:
Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess body weight, particularly around the waist, increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A healthy weight can be achieved by following a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in saturated and trans fats, sugar, and salt can help manage blood sugar levels and prevent complications of diabetes.
Exercising regularly: Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, can help manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
Monitoring blood sugar levels: People with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, either at home or in a healthcare setting. This helps them to adjust their insulin or medication doses as needed.
Taking medications as prescribed: For those with type 2 diabetes, medication may be prescribed to help manage blood sugar levels. It’s important to take these medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Managing stress: High levels of stress can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Quitting smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and can also increase the risk of complications for those who already have diabetes. Quitting smoking can help prevent these complications.
It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan for managing diabetes and taking necessary precautions.
