Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a disease that occurs due to uncontrolled levels of sugar in the blood. A fasting blood sugar test is done to screen the level of blood sugar. If the disease is not treated on time, it can lead to serious complications like chronic diabetes which includes Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Certain dietary changes like healthy eating and regular exercising can help to manage the insulin secretions in the body. Medication or insulin injections are also used to manage it. Regardless of everything people need to fight it while they are not sure from where to start.
Treatment of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes results from the immune system attacking and damaging the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to reduced insulin secretion. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes typically involves both insulin resistance (where cells don't respond effectively to insulin) and a gradual decrease in insulin production by the pancreas. While lifestyle factors like diet and physical activity play a role in Type 2 diabetes, they are not the sole causes; genetic and other factors also contribute to its development.
The diabetes diet is simply a healthy eating plan that involves more fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains that are high in nutrition and fibre and low in fat and calories. It is important to cut down on saturated fat, refined carbohydrates and sweets. Consulting a dietitian can help in crafting a personalised meal plan. Carbohydrate counting is key for Type 1 diabetes or when using insulin.
Regular aerobic exercise, like walking or swimming, helps lower blood sugar levels by utilising sugar as an energy source and improving insulin sensitivity. This reduces the body's insulin needs, making physical activity a crucial routine for diabetes management.
Treatment of Type 1 diabetes
The treatment for type 1 diabetes involves:
- Use of insulin injections, shots or an insulin pump to maintain insulin levels
- Frequent blood sugar monitoring to keep track of sugar levels
- Carbohydrate counting to maintain carbohydrates in the diet
- A pancreas transplant or islet cell transplant in case of chronic diabetes
Insulin
People with type-1 diabetes require insulin injections or shots to manage blood sugar to survive. Many people with type-2 diabetes or gestational diabetes cases also need insulin therapy to alter their blood sugar levels. There are many types of insulin available in the market including short-acting (regular insulin), rapid-acting insulin, long-acting insulin and intermediate options that are used based on the mixture of insulin types as prescribed by a doctor. Insulin cannot be taken orally as it interferes with stomach enzymes. Insulin pumps are used nowadays to treat the patient.
Treatment of Type 2 diabetes
The treatment for type-2 diabetes mostly involves lifestyle changes and monitoring blood sugar, along with oral diabetes drugs, insulin or both.
· Monitoring blood sugar level
People with type-2 diabetes do not require daily monitoring of sugar before every meal as they are not dependent on insulin injections. However, people who are taking insulin therapy require close monitoring of their blood sugar levels by using a glucose metre.
- Monitoring haemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) sugar levels
The haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test can diagnose or confirm pre-diabetes or diabetes. It considers factors like pregnancy stage or certain types of anaemia. This test provides a comprehensive view compared to daily blood sugar tests, indicating the effectiveness of diabetes treatment plans. Oral drugs, insulin or meal plans are adjusted to manage blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
Regular exercise not only aids in regulating blood sugar levels and burning excess calories but also supports weight management. A balanced diet is crucial in managing blood sugar levels. Additionally, medication such as insulin or an insulin pump may be necessary for diabetes management. Monitoring blood sugar regularly at home is essential, and maintaining close communication with the medical team is crucial for guidance. Securing comprehensive health insurance ensures access to necessary medications and treatments, fostering better diabetes management.