Understanding Type 2 Diabetes: Causes, Risks, and Management

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most prevailing health conditions today, affecting millions of people worldwide. Getting diagnosed with diabetes can be discouraging, and managing it may seem a little too overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can effectively manage it. Understanding what it is, what causes it, its risk factors, and its symptoms is the first step. With a few lifestyle changes, you can keep it in check and lead a healthier and fuller life.

Type 2 diabetes happens when your body cannot produce enough insulin, or it cannot efficiently use it, leading to high blood sugar. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune disorder, type 2 diabetes is majorly influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors, making it a public health concern.

Many people with prediabetes can successfully prevent its progression by making the right and informed lifestyle changes in their diets, physical activities, and stress management. This blog is a comprehensive guide to help you understand diabetes and its symptoms, risks, and how you can manage it. Read further to know more.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder that causes your body to become resistant to insulin; in other words, it affects your body's ability to use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose levels in your bloodstream, enabling the cells to use sugar for energy. Over time, the pancreas struggles to produce enough insulin to keep the blood sugar levels in check.

Early detection and intervention can make all the difference in managing and preventing the progression of type 2 diabetes. Many prediabetic people may not experience the symptoms initially, which is why it is essential to get regular screenings

How Common is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is an alarmingly common health problem affecting over 537 million people worldwide, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Studies suggest that 1 in 10 adults globally has type 2 diabetes, and the number is projected to rise.

The widespread presence of diabetes has increased drastically over the past few decades due to lifestyle changes, sedentary habits, and stress. The growing burden of diabetes calls for greater awareness and proactive management strategies to reduce its impact on public health.

What Causes Type 2 Diabetes?

The causes of type 2 diabetes are numbers; it is caused by a combination of genetics, lifestyle, environmental factors, and even stress. The exact cause triggering T2D varies from person to person, but these are a few factors that can affect it:

• Insulin Resistance: When the body's cells do not effectively respond to insulin, it causes your pancreas to produce more insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Over time, the pancreas becomes overworked and loses its ability to produce sufficient insulin.

• Genetics: Individuals with a family history of diabetes are more likely to develop it for themselves.

• Obesity: Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, contributes to inflammation and insulin resistance, affecting glucose metabolism.

• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can reduce the body's insulin sensitivity, making it harder to regulate blood sugar levels.

• Poor Diet: The type of foods you consume can affect your metabolism, resulting in type 2 diabetes and weight gain. Processed foods, sugary beverages, and foods with unhealthy fats are the main culprits.

• Hormonal Imbalance: Conditions that are caused because of hormonal imbalances, like polycystic ovary syndrome (commonly known as PCOS), can increase the risk of insulin resistance.

• Chronic Stress: Stress can contribute to a rise in a hormone called cortisol, which interferes with insulin functions and leads to higher blood sugar levels.

What are the Risk Factors Attached to Type 2 Diabetes?

• Age: The risk increases after the age of 45.

• Family History: The chances are high if you have a parent or sibling with diabetes.

• High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is closely linked to insulin resistance.

• Unhealthy Cholesterol Levels: Low HDL (good cholesterol) and high triglycerides contribute to diabetes risk.

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS have a higher risk of insulin resistance.

• Gestational Diabetes History: Women who had diabetes during pregnancy are at greater risk.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Many symptoms of diabetes may go unnoticed as they develop gradually, but here are a few:  

• Increased thirst and frequent urination

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue and weakness

• Blurred vision

• Slow-healing wounds

• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

• Frequent infections

How to Manage Type 2 Diabetes?

Managing type 2 diabetes can be daunting, but with a few lifestyle modifications, you can successfully manage it:

• Balanced Diet: Eat a well-balanced diet that is rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber, like leafy greens, nuts, and legumes. It helps regulate blood sugar levels. It is advised to avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and trans fats.
• Regular Physical Activity: Exercising helps the body to use insulin more efficiently. Engage in activities like brisk walks, cycling, swimming, and strength training; they help improve the body's insulin sensitivity and promote overall well-being.
• Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular checkups help identify and monitor fluctuations, which helps to make informed lifestyle changes.  
• Healthy Weight Management: The body's weight can highly impact your overall well-being, including your blood sugar levels. Losing even a small percentage of body weight can help in controlling blood sugar levels.
• Stress Management: Stress triggers hormonal imbalance that worsens insulin resistance. Studies indicate that meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and mindfulness can help manage stress and stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Prioritize Sleep: Poor sleep quality can disrupt insulin function and contribute to weight gain. It is highly recommended to get 7-9 hours of restful night's sleep to support metabolic health.

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes has its share of risks attached to it, but managing it can be simpler with the right lifestyle alternations, medical support, and a few preventive measures. Adopt healthier habits, eat a balanced diet, sleep well, and for those looking for additional support, consider iMeMyself's WellT2DM. It is a carefully formulated supplement with scientifically researched natural ingredients and other activities that aid in maintaining a balanced sugar level and ensure long-term well-being.

FAQs

• Can type 2 diabetes be reversed? Can it be cured?

While it cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed through the right diet, exercise, stress management, and better sleep.  

• Is insulin support necessary for all type 2 diabetic patients?

Not always, many manage their diabetic condition through lifestyle changes, supplements, and oral medication.

• How often should I check my blood sugar?

It depends on your medical charts, but daily or weekly monitoring is recommended.