Diabetes

Diabetes 

Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) condition where your body has trouble controlling the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood. Glucose is your main source of energy, but it must be regulated by a hormone called insulin.

Types of Diabetes

1. Type 1 Diabetes

The body does not produce insulin.

Usually starts in childhood or young adulthood.

Requires daily insulin injections.

2. Type 2 Diabetes (most common)

The body does not use insulin properly or doesn’t make enough.

Often linked to:

Overweight/obesity

Lack of exercise

Unhealthy diet

Family history

Can be managed with diet, exercise, tablets, or insulin.

3. Gestational Diabetes

Happens during pregnancy.

Usually goes away after birth.

Increases risk of Type 2 diabetes later.

Common Symptoms

Frequent urination

Excessive thirst

Extreme hunger

Fatigue

Blurred vision

Slow wound healing

Tingling or numbness in hands/feet

Complications (if uncontrolled)

Heart disease & stroke

Kidney failure

Blindness

Nerve damage

Foot ulcers/amputation

Management & Prevention

Healthy Lifestyle

Eat more: vegetables, whole grains, lean protein

Avoid: sugary drinks, sweets, fried food

Exercise: 30 minutes/day (walking is enough)

Maintain healthy weight

Monitoring

Regular blood sugar checks

HbA1c test every 3–6 months

Medication

Tablets (like metformin)

Insulin (if needed)

Normal Blood Sugar Levels (general guide)

Fasting: 70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L)

After meals: <140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)