Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a disease related to abnormal insulin use or production in the body. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas and its main function is to control the level of sugar in our blood.
Type II diabetes is most common in middle-aged and older people. The pancreas of people with type II diabetes still produces insulin, however the person's cells can not use this insulin effectively. Because of this, more sugar ends up being left in the bloodstream which is called hyperglycaemia, and this can cause weakness, blurred vision, headaches and excessive urination and appetite.
People who are overweight or obese often do not respond effectively to insulin which can lead to the onset of diabetes mellitus.
Did you know...
80-90% of people who are diagnosed with type II diabetes are overweight or obese! This is another good reason to get active and start losing those extra kilos!
Causes
The main causes of type II diabetes are:
- Overweight/obesity
- Unhealthy diet practices
- Sedentary lifestyle (little or no exercise)
The onset of the disease is gradual, and people may live with diabetes for many years without realising it.
How to reduce your risk/manage your symptoms
Exercise is essential for people with type II diabetes. Exercise helps move the sugar from your bloodstream back in to your cells and can increase the effectiveness of insulin. exercise will also help in weightloss, which will increase your cell's response to insulin and also prevent people from developing diabetes to begin with!
Moderate activity exercise is best for type II diabetics, such as bowling, dancing, gardening or brisk walking. This level of activity is beneficial in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and assists in weight loss.
Food for Diabetes
General principles apply for healthy eating for diabetics and non-diabetics.
- Reduce your intake of fats, oils and sugars and have plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, lean meat and wholegrains.
- Alcohol intake needs close monitoring for diabetics as alcohol can affect blood sugar levels.
Health Complications
Diabetes can cause many health problems:
- Damaged blood vessels
- Vision loss
- Kidney failure
- Nerve damage
The consequences of diabetes are real and we must do all we can to prevent and/or control the disease.
For further information visit the sites listed below.
Diabetes Australia Queensland website
International Diabetes Institute
Australian Government Diabetes website