Type 2 Diabetes – Symptoms, Treatment Support, and Diet

Type 2 diabetes is a serious health problem worldwide. It is worth knowing what are the causes and symptoms of this disease.

Type 2 diabetes is more common than type 1 diabetes. It is estimated that people suffering from it constitute as much as 90% of all diabetics. Genetic factors and lifestyle contribute to the onset of the disease. The World Health Organization has recognized type 2 diabetes as an epidemic of the 21st century (although it is not contagious).

Type 2 diabetes is also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes. It is a metabolic disease in which there is an increased level of glucose in the blood and tissue resistance to insulin. The disease is progressive and requires appropriate treatment. Type 2 diabetes complications can affect all organs in the body – especially the heart, kidneys, eyesight, and nervous system.

The causes of type 2 diabetes

The causes of type 2 diabetes are related to genetic factors and lifestyle. Obesity (body mass index over 30 or high WHR) is assigned a very large role in the development of the disease. This is because the cells of obese people are particularly resistant to the effects of insulin, which results in a relative deficiency of this hormone and elevated blood glucose levels .

The following are considered risk factors for type 2 diabetes:

• obesity or overweight,
• incorrect diet
• High levels of triglycerides in the blood
• sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity ,
• age over 45,
• has a family history of diabetes.
• history of gestational diabetes,
• hypertension.
• pancreatic diseases.

Some of the risk factors for type 2 diabetes are either avoidable or changeable, especially when it comes to obesity and physical inactivity. Losing weight and introducing exercise on a daily basis greatly reduces the risk of getting sick.

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes are usually not present in the early stages of the disease , and abnormalities can only be detected by blood tests. Over time, there are:

• increased thirst,
• frequent urination,
• excessive sleepiness,
• lack of energy and chronic fatigue,
• weight loss
• recurrent infections of the genitourinary system.

Sometimes the symptoms of type 2 diabetes do not appear for several years. Nevertheless, elevated blood glucose levels damage tissues and internal organs. Hence, at the time of diagnosis, a patient is often diagnosed with visual impairment, polyneuropathy, or other complications.

How to Treat Type 2 Diabetes

Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus is aimed at maintaining normal blood glucose levels and preventing complications of the disease. In the initial stage, the patient does not need to take medications. However, it is necessary to change the diet and regular physical activity. Such a procedure requires appropriate education and full patient involvement in order to bring the expected results.

Sometimes drug therapy is necessary. Type 2 diabetes medications are mainly preparations containing metformin. When therapy fails, other oral agents are started, and sometimes insulin injections (insulin injections) are also required. Appropriate treatment of possible complications is also required – depending on their type and severity.

Treatment of type 2 diabetes may involve a hospital stay or a high cost. It is worth protecting yourself against them in an appropriate manner, e.g., through the first diabetes insurance in your country. It guarantees financial support for prevention and therapy (including the payment of an additional benefit) and access to specialist consultations.

What to eat in type 2 diabetes?

In type 2 diabetes, diet plays a significant role. Its main goal is to lose weight, but also to prevent a sudden spike in blood glucose. The basic principles of a healthy diet in diabetes are:

• By adjusting the number of calories to the body’s needs,
• Avoid eating foods rich in carbohydrates.
• By avoiding processed, fatty, and sweet products,
• Eating small meals at regular intervals
• frequent consumption of fresh vegetables,
• Eating products with a low glycemic index

The diet for type 2 diabetes should be compiled by a dietitian.