Diabetes is a chronic health condition that impacts how the body transforms food into energy. This article explores its various forms, how it affects the body’s energy management, methods of diagnosis, and management strategies.
How the Body Manages Energy
The body’s primary energy source is glucose, a simple sugar derived from the carbohydrates in food. After digestion, glucose enters the bloodstream and travels to cells throughout the body.
Insulin, a hormone produced by the beta cells in the pancreas, acts like a key, allowing glucose to enter cells for energy or storage.
When blood glucose levels rise, such as after a meal, the pancreas releases more insulin. As glucose enters cells, the pancreas reduces insulin production. If this system malfunctions—due to insufficient insulin or ineffective use—glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in the pancreas producing little to no insulin. While often diagnosed in children and young adults, Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age. Individuals with Type 1 diabetes require daily insulin to survive.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin (insulin resistance) or when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. It is the most common form of diabetes and can develop at any age, though it is more prevalent in older adults. Factors such as excess body fat, physical inactivity, and family history can contribute to its development.
Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy, typically between 24 and 28 weeks. It happens when hormones from the placenta interfere with the body’s ability to use insulin effectively. This condition usually resolves after childbirth, but it can increase the risk of both the mother and child developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes means blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Many individuals with prediabetes experience no symptoms, making regular screenings important. Without lifestyle changes, prediabetes significantly increases the risk of progressing to Type 2 diabetes.
Recognizing and Diagnosing Diabetes
Common physical changes can indicate diabetes. Individuals might experience increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss. Other indicators include blurred vision, persistent fatigue, and slow-healing cuts or sores.
Diabetes is medically diagnosed through specific blood tests. The A1C test provides an average blood glucose level over the past two to three months and does not require fasting. A result of 6.5% or higher on the A1C test typically indicates diabetes.
The fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test measures blood sugar after at least eight hours of not eating or drinking, usually in the morning. A fasting glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate occasions confirms a diabetes diagnosis. The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) involves measuring blood glucose before and two hours after consuming a sugary drink, showing how the body processes sugar. A two-hour blood glucose level of 200 mg/dL or higher on this test indicates diabetes.
Managing Diabetes and Preventing Complications
Managing diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, medication, and consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels. Dietary modifications, such as focusing on whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fresh produce, help stabilize blood sugar. Regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly, improves insulin sensitivity and supports weight management.
Medication may be necessary, with oral drugs like metformin often prescribed for Type 2 diabetes, and insulin therapy administered via injections or pumps for Type 1 diabetes and some cases of Type 2. Frequent blood sugar monitoring, using a glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor, provides data to adjust treatment plans. Managing stress and ensuring adequate sleep also contribute to diabetes management.
Unmanaged diabetes can lead to several long-term health issues from sustained high blood glucose damaging blood vessels and nerves. These complications include heart disease, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Kidney disease (nephropathy) can progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplant. Nerve damage (neuropathy) can cause numbness, tingling, or pain, particularly in the hands and feet, potentially leading to foot ulcers and amputations. Eye problems, such as retinopathy, can cause vision loss or blindness. Early diagnosis and ongoing management are important to mitigate these health risks.