KEEPING DIABETES UNDER CONTROL

Diabetes is one of the most common diseases that plague modern society. It occurs in both adults and children. Heredity in diabetes is very pronounced, and risk factors include overweight, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. Very often, it can also be triggered by severe stress.

The disease is characterized by high levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Glucose is the element that allows cells to function properly and produce the energy our bodies need. However, glucose can only penetrate cells if it is combined with the appropriate amount of insulin. Insulin, in turn, is a hormone produced by the pancreas. In healthy people, it regulates blood sugar levels to values that allow it to penetrate cells. However, diabetics lack this hormone, which disrupts the process of cell nutrition.

Types of diabetes

● Diabetes Type 1

In type 1 diabetes, the body produces antibodies that destroy insulin. Glucose accumulates because of the lack of an agent that can let it enter the cells. In order for the body to function at all, it is necessary to provide it with insulin, and this is done by injection according to a certain scheme. Therefore, this type of diabetes is known as insulin-dependent.

● Type 2 Diabetes

When we talk about type 2 diabetes, we usually refer to middle-aged patients. Their bodies produce insulin, but for some reason it does not reach the cells, thus blocking the absorption of glucose so that it remains in the bloodstream. In such instances, we are talking about non-insulin dependent diabetes.

Symptoms indicating the presence of diabetes

Many symptoms suggest that you may have developed diabetes. You should start paying attention if you:

• drink more water than usual, all the while experiencing constant thirst and dry mouth;
• eat normally, but you lose weight and feel constantly tired and exhausted;
• often urinate and experience unpleasant genital itching;
• have wounds and they heal slowly and with difficulty.

Unfortunately, diabetes can develop asymptomatically, and its detection is a matter of chance. Diagnosis requires hospitalization so that tests can be scheduled and a treatment regimen can be established. It may involve several days of insulin doses or taking medicines appropriate for your condition. Your endocrinologist decides what they need to be.

The presence of diabetes requires a strict diet

From this moment forward, everything is up to you. Medicines will do their job, but you must make an effort to facilitate their action and help your own body.

Let’s see how we can help the treatment ourselves:

● Get rid of the extra pounds

First of all, it is essential that you lose all the extra pounds. They block the access of insulin to the cells.

● Avoid eating foods that are high in sugar

Also, get used to the idea that sweets are taboo for you and eliminate them completely from your menu. Make changes in your diet as well. All foods with a high glycemic index should be limited as much as possible. It is important to get used to eating wholegrain bread, preferably homemade. It is even more useful if it is made from yeast dough. Store-bought breads often contain added sugar, colorants, and other flours that you should avoid.

● White rice and potatoes should also be a thing of the past

This is not really that big of a deal since rice can be easily replaced with bulgur. When you feel like eating potatoes, opt for sweet potatoes, which can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. They can even be used to make desserts.

● Avoid artificial sweeteners

They are not a good choice. A good solution is sweetening with natural dates or, in rare cases, a teaspoon of honey. Alcohol contains a lot of sugar, so limit its intake as much as possible.

Eat yogurt with cinnamon, turmeric, and ground flaxseed every night or make tea from steamed dried fig leaves.

Your health is in your hands!