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DIABETES: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, MANAGEMENT, AND PREVENTION 









 Diabetes is a complex, chronic condition that comes in several forms, each with its own causes, risks, and best ways to manage it.

 Diabetes alters how your body uses insulin, a substance produced in the pancreas, required by cells to absorb sugar in the form of glycogen. When glycogen is unavailable to your cells, they lack an energy source.

The two most common types of diabetes are Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 is primarily an autoimmune issue—your own immune system mistakenly destroys the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas (Nature Reviews Disease Primers)

There are rare, less-understood forms as well, often linked to genetics. Type 2 diabetes, which accounts for over 90% of all cases, develops when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough of it (Nature Reviews Disease Primers; NY.gov). Symptoms can be similar to Type 1, but often develop more gradually and can also include blurred vision, slow-healing sores, and frequent infections. Gestational diabetes can appear during pregnancy and signals a higher future risk of developing Type 2.

 Common symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. 

The causes depend on the type. For Type 1, it’s a mix of genetics and sometimes environmental triggers, such as viral infections (Science). Type 2 is fueled by a combination of genetic factors, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet, all leading to insulin resistance (Diabetes). The science points to problems both in how your body produces insulin and how it responds to it.

Treatment also depends on the type. People with Type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy (Diabetes Care). Type 2 can often be managed—at least at first—with a healthier diet, more exercise, and medications like metformin or sulfonylureas; sometimes insulin or new drug classes are added (Current Drug Discovery Technologies). Some traditional, plant-based remedies are still used, though evidence for their effectiveness varies. Scientists are also working on new treatments that target different aspects of blood sugar control.

Here’s some good news: Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable. The best defense is to maintain a healthy weight, stay active, and eat a balanced diet. For those at high risk, medications like metformin can help delay or prevent the disease (Annual Review of Public Health; Diabetologia; Journal of Applied Physiology). Public health programs that help people make healthier choices are key.

Managing diabetes is about more than just taking medicine. It’s a daily commitment: tracking your blood sugar, sticking to a healthy lifestyle, and learning how to take care of yourself—education and support matter a lot (Diabetes Care; Nutrition & Diabetes; ResearchGate). There are also special considerations for people who are pregnant or hospitalized, where tailored care is needed.

Yearly physicals will usually reveal metabolic issues through blood work, in the form of metabolic panels.

If you have a family history, it is paramount that you inform your health care provider to ensure consistent surveillance and preventative measures.

In short, Diabetes is common, but not inevitable. The right mix of knowledge, good habits, and medical care can make all the difference. If you’re ready to take charge of your health—whether you want to prevent diabetes or manage it more effectively—connect with a ProTime-Fitness health coach at ProTime-Fitness.org. Personalized guidance and support can help you build habits that last.

References:

  • Nature Reviews Disease Primers

  • NY.gov

  • Science

  • Diabetes

  • Diabetes Care

  • Current Drug Discovery Technologies

  • Annual Review of Public Health

  • Diabetologia

  • Journal of Applied Physiology

  • Nutrition & Diabetes

  • ResearchGate

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