Diabetes: Healthy Performance

What does it mean to have diabetes? In order to answer that question, we need to identify two important terms – glucose and insulin. Glucose is the simple sugar that fuels the cells of the human body. It is vital to keep a constant, steady, moderate flow of glucose to the bloodstream. Insulin is a hormone found in the pancreas that keeps blood sugar levels under control by removing excess glucose from the blood. Normally, when you eat something, the body releases insulin as part of the process that converts food into fuel. To have diabetes means one of two things, either the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces or the body can no longer make insulin at all.

The person who secretes no insulin is likely to experience a sudden onset of diabetes, also known as Type I Diabetes. This person may lose weight rapidly, because without insulin, the cells cannot store glucose or fat. Type I is not hereditary. It accounts for about 10-15% of all diabetes requiring insulin shots and occurs most frequently in children and adolescents.

The person whose body makes insulin but resists responding to it has Type II Diabetes. This person becomes overweight because they are constantly hungry and they store more fat than normal. This is the most common type of diabetes and accounts for about 85-95% of all cases diagnosed. While Type II can have different causes, those with a family history should take extra precautions in preventing the condition.

There are numerous ways to prevent diabetes. One way is to recognize some of the common symptoms. These are thirst, frequent urination, food cravings (especially sweets), fatigue, blurred vision and recurring infections. Diabetes should be checked for by having a glucose tolerance test done. Early detection is key – by treating the causes early and effectively, one can prevent or minimize the severity of the complications associated with diabetes.

It cannot be stressed enough how preventable diabetes is. If only we exercised a bit more. If only we ate a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and water. If only we didn’t consume so much saturated fat and processed meat. If only we didn’t smoke and gain excess weight. All of these factors contribute to the tremendous increase of diabetes in today’s society.

In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that 135 million people worldwide are affected by Type II Diabetes, and it’s likely that even more will develop diabetes by the year 2025. These are alarming numbers. Yet, with just a few simple changes to our lifestyle, diabetes can be decreased drastically. So, let’s get out there and move, let’s eat in a healthier manner and let’s live in a smoke free environment.