Diabetes is a chronic disease primarily characterized by high blood sugar levels, which can have adverse effects on multiple systems in the body. Based on etiology and clinical presentation, diabetes is generally classified into the following main types:
Type 1 Diabetes:
Type 1 diabetes, also known as autoimmune diabetes, is caused by autoimmune destruction of the pancreatic beta cells, leading to reduced or complete cessation of insulin secretion. This type of diabetes typically occurs in young individuals and requires exogenous insulin to maintain blood sugar control.
Type 2 Diabetes:
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, accounting for the vast majority of all diabetes cases. It usually occurs in adults, especially middle-aged and elderly individuals. The characteristic feature of type 2 diabetes is insufficient insulin secretion or insensitivity to insulin, known as insulin resistance. The onset of this type of diabetes is often associated with various factors such as genetic predisposition, lifestyle, obesity, and stress.
Gestational Diabetes:
Gestational diabetes refers to high blood sugar levels that occur during pregnancy. It typically develops in the later stages of pregnancy and resolves to normal blood sugar levels after delivery. However, women with gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
In summary, diabetes is primarily categorized into three main types: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Each type has different etiology and characteristics. If you suspect that you have diabetes, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Diabetes:
Genetics:
This is a factor that we cannot control.
Lifestyle habits:
Prolonged unhealthy lifestyle habits can contribute to the development of diabetes. Factors such as frequent consumption of large amounts of fat and sugar, high-calorie diets combined with lack of exercise, increase the risk of developing diabetes compared to the general population.
While diabetes is not immediately life-threatening, it is a chronic condition that should not be taken lightly. Prolonged exposure to high blood sugar levels increases the risk of complications, including cardiovascular diseases, retinopathy, slow wound healing, diabetic
foot, and more severe conditions that can affect brain health, such as stroke or diabetic neuropathy. To live with diabetes, patients must practice self-control of their dietary habits and engage in appropriate exercise.
Healthy lifestyle and dietary habits contribute to blood sugar health:
Aim to engage in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 20 minutes, twice a week, such as brisk walking, dancing, swimming, etc.
Reduce calorie intake, consume less fried foods, and decrease the consumption of carbohydrates and sugars, such as white bread, pasta, candies, sweetened beverages, etc.
Consume more nuts, vegetables, foods rich in protein, and beneficial fatty acids.
Overweight individuals should pay attention to gut health, as gastrointestinal issues can often affect the normal absorption of nutrients and lead to fat accumulation.
Reference:
1. What is diabetes? Diabetes UK. Visited 28 March 2014.
2. Diabetes risk factors. Diabetes.co.uk. Visited 28 March 2014.
3. http://www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/25/59.html.Visited 13 May 2017.
4. www.axivite.com
