Diabetes….a life sentence or a life opportunity to treat your body the way it deserves?

Just a quick description before we move on :

Diabetes Type 1 : The body destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin ( daily insulin injections needed)

Diabetes Type 2 : Not enough insulin produced OR less insulin receptors on the body cells. (Glucophage/Metformin is the most common first-line treatment)

Insulin : This hormone Allows GLUCOSE into your cells. Without the correct functioning of this hormone, glucose remains in your blood stream which is called hyperglycaemia.

A normal fasting blood glucose level should be below 6.5.

Those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes :

• Those with close blood relatives who are already diagnosed as diabetic.
• Obesity, especially central obesity(abdominal fat).
• Women with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome(PCOS).

Symptoms to watch out for :

• Urination very frequent
• Hungry often
• Thirsty often
• Fatigue
• Slow healing
• Blurred vision

Lifestyle Changes :

• WEIGHTLOSS : Aim for realistic weight loss goals, motivate yourself to keep up with a regular exercise routine(physical activity lowers blood glucose levels).
• HEALTHY EATING : Cut down on Fat, salt and sugar.
• NO SMOKING
• Look after your feet
• Regular eye exams